Equity and equality. That is what Rachel Williams, a Housing and Community Development Manager for Fort Lauderdale, is trying to accomplish with her work.
Williams strives to provide affordable housing and community development services for Broward County and Fort Lauderdale residents. These services include Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS, State Housing Initiatives Partnership, and many more.
“I’ve always had a desire to do meaningful work that impacts people’s lives in a positive way,” she said. “It’s a combination of passion colliding with opportunity.”
Gary Hensley, Director of Operations of SunServe, has also worked with Williams through the years. Before SunServe he worked with Williams while he was at the Broward House as well.
“She’s a strong supporter of affordable housing and has always been a supporter of LGBTQ rights,” Hensley said. “She always makes our LGBT agencies aware of housing openings.”
Some programs under the services are public services for the elderly, childcare, domestic violence shelter service, housing support for youths aging out of foster care and the homeless, and more.
“[I’m proud of] the results of collective efforts and initiative that have positively impacted hundreds of lives,” she said.
She added that with specific focus on HOPWA, many people and families have transitioned from a life of homelessness and drugs to successful careers and self-sufficiency.
Williams is also involved in the LGBT community as well. She said she is an ally, advocate and service provider.
Tiffany Arieagus, Director of the Housing Program at SunServe, has worked with Williams for years and counts her as an ally.
“Rachel is and has always been a strong supporter and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. I have worked with her for many years and respect her work ethics and patience and temperament,” said Tiffany Arieagus. “She is involved in ensuring that all of our clients’ voices and needs are heard when they reach out to her for help. It is important to her that all agencies work together to provide excellent services for our clients.”
