The 28th Annual Ruby Awards Celebrates Leadership, Innovation and Impact in Affordable Housing

SAN DIEGO – The San Diego Housing Federation will honor Ken Sauder, President and CEO of Wakeland Housing, with the Housing Champion recognition at its annual Ruby Awards. The signature event is the country’s largest affordable housing industry recognition event honoring the best people, projects and achievements during the past year. The 28th annual Ruby Awards will be held May 3, 2018 from 5:30-9 p.m. at the Prado in Balboa Park. 

Each year, the Board of Directors select a Housing Champion that honors professionals with more than two decades of leadership, innovation and impact in the affordable housing field.

Recipients embody the values of the Federation: a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability; collaboration and partnership across the community development field and advocacy for policies that improve the quality of life of families and communities. The Housing Champion is the only category that is exclusively chosen by the Board of Directors. 

Sauder was selected for the accolade for his 35-year commitment to affordable housing that continues to advance the principles of the San Diego Housing Federation. As President and CEO of Wakeland Housing, he led the development of more than 6,700 units in 44 developments throughout California, including more than 100 units of permanent supportive housing designed to help stabilize formerly homeless individuals.

Throughout his career, Sauder has exemplified strong leadership and an unwavering dedication to serving lower income families and those in need. His strong impact in the industry not only affects the San Diego community but extends beyond the County. He was the former executive director of Tijuana-San Diego Habitat For Humanity, where he headed a team of six staff and countless volunteers that built 100 houses in Tijuana. Sauder’s achievements point the way toward a broader view of the region.

“The outstanding individuals like Ken Sauder, dedicated organizations, and unique projects that are nominated each year is a testament to the strength of the affordable housing industry and community development in our region,” said Matt Jumper, San Diego Housing Federation President. “Celebrating the 28th annual Ruby Awards comes at an important time, as the Housing Federation continues to broaden its reach.”

The additional Ruby Awards categories include: Outstanding Resident Leader, Outstanding Service to Residents, Outstanding Advocate, Outstanding Development Partner, Outstanding Gov Agency or Elected Official, John Craven Award, SDG&E Environmental: New Construction, CSH Supportive Housing Award, Innovation Award, Project of the Year: Rehab and Project of the Year: New Construction.

San Diego Housing Federation
The San Diego Housing Federation is the region’s voice for affordable housing. The Federation is committed to increasing the supply of housing for San Diego’s most vulnerable families, seniors, veterans, and those living with disabilities. For more information visit, www.housingsandiego.org.

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Contact:          Valeria Hernandez
                        Cook + Schmid
                        vhernandez@cookandschmid.com
                        619-814-2370 ext. 18

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