DCHA Joins HUD, ICF &...

DCHA Joins HUD, ICF & Community Development Solutions for Section 3 Listening Session

Representatives from the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) participated in a panel on Jan. 21 that discussed how to strengthen opportunities through Section 3 - a provision by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that supports training, employment, contracting and other economic development opportunities for individuals who receive government assistance for housing, and businesses that provide economic opportunities to low-income persons.

The panel, which was hosted by ICF, Community Development Solutions, and HUD and included Section 3 contractors as attendees, took place at HUD Headquarters in DC. The featured group of speakers had expertise in housing or workforce development, or found success through a relevant initiative.

Panelists included:

• Natashia Brisco, Intake and Case Management Specialist in DCHA's Office of Resident Services
• Pierrah Williams, Facilities Coordinator at RSC Electrical and Mechanical Contractors, Inc.
• Ed Trumbull, Board Chairman of Virginia Career Works - Northern Region
• Kelly Ann Morrow, Housing Compliance Officer at the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
• Leena Khurana, Senior Compliance Specialist at the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)

Panelists shared their organization's primary goals for workforce development in 2026, which included expanding training opportunities, increasing resident participation, strengthening employer partnerships and improving data.

Ms. Williams offered her unique perspective on Section 3 initiatives and programs. Williams was a former DCHA resident who utilized the opportunities provided by the agency. She found success through various programs, including the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program. She was able to enhance her skills, access learning resources, get summer jobs, obtain full-time employment, and begin her current professional journey.

Ms. Brisco reviewed how DCHA engages and recruits residents for its Workforce Development Initiative (WDI), and works with contractors to provide hiring opportunities. She highlighted the trainings available through DCHA, including OSHA-30, the Sherwin Williams Painter's Course, the 12-month Maintenance Apprenticeship Training program, and more.

The panel covered additional topics, such as workforce partnerships, trainings, local workforce development boards, supporting strategies, and the importance of housing support.

DCHA is committed to Section 3 and its duty to provide economic opportunities for its residents, voucher program participants, and eligible low-income individuals in Washington, D.C.

Last Updated on February 23, 2026