Michelle Sites's Journey and Commitment to Affordable Housing - "With You All the Way”
As a proud San Diego native, Michelle Sites's love for her city runs deep. Growing up in San Diego shaped her values and instilled in her a commitment to giving back to the community that has given her so much. Today, she serves as the Vice President of CONAM Management Corporation, where she has spent over 25 years in the property management industry. Her journey began as a receptionist in a small property management firm, and through hard work and dedication, she has risen to oversee a large portfolio. However, Michelle's most fulfilling journey is the one she has taken alongside the San Diego Housing Federation (SDHF), where she discovered not only her professional purpose but also the power of community.
Michelle's connection with the SDHF began with admiration for its strong reputation within the affordable housing sector. Inspired to contribute, she reached out to learn how she could get involved. This led her to volunteer at the Ruby Awards, and from that moment on, she was hooked.
Her involvement deepened during the challenging years of the COVID pandemic when she sought to remain engaged and support her peers. Attending weekly calls, she offered her expertise in roundtable discussions, sharing insights on the challenges faced by the industry. The SDHF became a lifeline for her, connecting her with like-minded professionals and fostering an environment of collaboration and support.
A pivotal moment in Michelle's journey came in 2020 when she collaborated with the SDHF team to create an affordable housing training program. With SDHF’s backing, this initiative was transformed into the Affordable Housing Management Academy within SDHF’s School of Affordable Housing, which has since graduated over 50 students. This program not only equips individuals with vital skills but also emphasizes the importance of affordable housing in the community. “Knowing I played a part in this initiative fills me with immense pride and serves as a reminder of the profound impact that can be made when we work together.”
The SDHF has been "with her all the way," providing the resources, connections, and encouragement necessary to navigate the complexities of the affordable housing landscape. Their unwavering commitment to fostering professional growth has empowered Michelle to share her knowledge and experiences with others, creating a ripple effect of positive change. She has spoken at conferences, participated in various projects, and, as a current board member, strives to amplify the voices of those dedicated to this cause.
Access to affordable housing is not just an aspiration for Michelle; it is a fundamental right. In a city like San Diego, where housing costs can be overwhelming, it is essential that the community comes together to address these challenges. The professionals connected to the SDHF are not just advocates; they are a community of passionate individuals committed to making a difference in the lives of those they serve.
As the SDHF reflects on the successes of this year and the inspiring stories of resilience, innovation, and collaboration, Michelle invites everyone to join in this mission. Support is vital to their efforts. She encourages potential donors to consider contributing to the San Diego Housing Federation’s year-end campaign, “With You All the Way.” Every contribution strengthens the community they’ve built and empowers them to create a more equitable housing landscape for all San Diegans. Together, we can ensure that everyone has a place to call home and the opportunity to learn and work in the sector.
