With support from Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) and funding through The Power of Change, a new chapter in affordable housing began Tuesday, May 13, as the Fluvanna-Louisa Housing Foundation (FLHF) broke ground on its latest development.
The ceremony, held at FLHF’s office on Resource Lane between Louisa and Mineral, celebrated the start of construction on 25 affordable housing units—made possible in part by a $10,000 grant from The Power of Change, REC’s member-funded charitable giving program.
“We are seeking to build one of our first $100,000 units and $10,000 from REC’s The Power of Change goes a long way for us to accomplish that,” said Kim Hyland, FLHF’s Executive Director. “The Power of Change grant was a huge contribution, really helping us out with a big push. It’s beyond words.”
As a life-long resident of Louisa County and Chairperson of the CARE Board, which oversees the distribution of The Power of Change funds, Pat Thomasson also attended the groundbreaking and shared her gratitude.
“As a resident of Louisa, I am happy to be here today just to witness and be a part of this occasion,” Thomasson said. “We thank all of the REC members that contribute to The Power of Change each month to help support the grant funding for community organizations like this.”
For more than 40 years, the Fluvanna-Louisa Housing Foundation has been a cornerstone of support for residents across the region. From installing plumbing in homes that lacked running water in the 1980s to providing emergency repairs after natural disasters, FLHF has consistently responded to the evolving needs of the community with compassion and integrity.
“Stable housing is essential for strong communities,” said Andrea Madison, FLHF’s Operations Manager. “The financial support of our donors and grantors have allowed this dream to become a reality.”
This new initiative will cover the construction of 25 affordable housing units – 16 one-bedroom units and nine two-bedroom units – and will provide safe, accessible, and well-maintained homes for Louisa County seniors and essential personnel who currently struggle to find local housing.
The Power of Change: Small Change, Big Impact
The $10,000 award presented to FLHF is one of two such grants distributed this year by The Power of Change, a program made possible through the generosity of REC members. By voluntarily rounding up their monthly bills to the nearest dollar, participating members fund grants that support critical community projects throughout the region.
“The Power of Change is a good example of how together we can do more, we wouldn’t be able to do it if we didn’t do it together,” Hyland shared. “That little bit of change makes a big impact.”
This initiative proves that even the smallest acts of giving can lead to life-changing outcomes. The homes that will soon stand on the grounds of Resource Lane are a direct result of this collective goodwill—an enduring testament to the power of community.
Get Involved
Making a difference in your community has never been easier. By simply rounding up your monthly electric bill, your spare change – averaging 52 cents per month – could be the start of something transformational in your community.
“Please round up – we appreciate all of the effort and support,” Hyland said. “Your small contribution truly makes a big difference.”
To learn more or to sign up, members can head to thepowerofchange.org.
