This past week, we gathered to honor an incredible milestone for our community—the CLTRE Keeper First-Time Homebuyer Graduation! This event marked the culmination of 8 weeks of dedication, growth, and perseverance for our participants, who worked tirelessly to make their dreams of homeownership a reality. It was a joyous evening filled with celebration, gratitude, and inspiration.
A Journey of Resilience and Community
The CLTRE Keeper Program is more than just a pathway to homeownership; it’s a community-driven initiative designed to empower individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to secure a stable future. Over seven inspiring weeks, participants gathered every Saturday to learn from guest speakers, share experiences, and build lasting connections. These sessions weren’t just about financial literacy and property evaluations—they were about building a supportive network, a place where dreams are encouraged and obstacles are overcome together.
Our participants’ stories of resilience and determination are a testament to the transformative power of community. As each graduate shared their journey, it became clear that the CLTRE Keeper Program has created a legacy of support, collaboration, and growth.
An Evening of Reflection and Recognition
The graduation ceremony began with a warm welcome from the CLTRE team and our partners, including heartfelt remarks from our Executive Director, Roshaun Davis, and Program Director, Ashley Garner. We reflected on the achievements of our graduates, celebrated their commitment, and highlighted the essential role that community support plays in empowering individuals to reach their goals.
Following the program highlights, we recognized each graduate’s accomplishments, honoring their hard work and dedication. Each story shared was a reminder of the journey that brought them here and the bright future that lies ahead. This ceremony was more than just an end—it was a new beginning, marking the start of a chapter filled with hope, stability, and opportunity.
Our Partners: The Backbone of Success
We owe a tremendous thank you to our incredible partners who made this program possible. The graduation was held at the CLTRE community space thanks to Capital Area Development Authority (CADA), which provided a welcoming space for our community to come together. Niva Flor, Chief Impact Officer at the Sacramento Region Community Foundation gave our graduates and their families words of wisdom, and shared the collaboration with CLTRE on the first ever First-Time Homebuyer Fund at the foundation. Lastly, our main partner, U.S. Bank, surprised the crowd with an extra $2,500 bringing the total to $20,000 per family in downpayment assistance. Their support, along with the invaluable contributions of other local organizations, helped us deliver a comprehensive program that empowers first-time homebuyers to secure lasting legacies for their families.
Looking Forward: Building a Future of Community Ownership
As we reflect on the success of the CLTRE Keeper Program, we’re inspired by the resilience of our graduates and the impact of community support in creating pathways to homeownership. This event not only celebrates the achievements of our first-time homebuyers but also reinforces our commitment to expanding access to economic opportunity and building a future rooted in community ownership.
Congratulations to our graduates—you have shown that dreams of homeownership are attainable, and your accomplishments pave the way for others in our community to follow. We can’t wait to see how you continue to shape Sacramento’s neighborhoods with your strength, resilience, and passion.
Stay tuned for updates on upcoming CLTRE Keeper Program opportunities and more ways to get involved. Together, we’re building a Sacramento where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
