Pub. 5 2010-2011 Issue 5

www.nebankers.org 24 Extraordinary Service for Extraordinary Members. P RA I R I E GO L D HOME S I S A Lincoln-based 501(c)(3) non- profit organization helping to grow the state’s supply of new affordable housing through an innovative job training program oper- ated in collaboration with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. The Prairie GoldHomes job training program helps inmates gain skills in the construction industry while build- ing energy-efficient modular housing for Nebraska communities. This skills training enhances the inmates’ employ- ability upon release, helping them to stay out of prison which saves substan- tial tax dollars. The program evolved from a pilot project started in 2001 by the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority. Today, community partners work together to deliver superior job training while assuring that the finished homes meet local needs. Using high-quality, brand-name materials that meet or exceed Nebras- ka building standards, the modular homes are built at Cornhusker State Industries in Lincoln and then are transported for final placement and finishing by local contractors. It can be a quick and cost-effective housing solution for many communi- ties. When Hallam was nearly wiped New Job Training Program Offers Solution to Housing Crunch out by a tornado several years ago, a Prairie Gold home was the perfect so- lution to help one family reclaim their former lives. Bob Rentfro is a Lincoln builder who has worked with the Prairie Gold program for several years. He was the contractor for the Hallam home, as well as two others in surrounding communities. He uses local workers to construct the foundation and for electri- cal, plumbing, heating, and other finish- ing work. He typically spends about $35,000 on local workers andmaterials to site the home. “It’s a nice infusion into the local economy,” Rentfro said. While the basic Prairie Gold home costs about $40,000 and has a little more than 1,000 square feet, Rentfro has added extra rooms, decks, and garages. “The homes are very well made and extremely energy efficient,” Rentfro said. He owns a Prairie Gold home southeast of Lincoln that he has Is quality affordable housing available in your community? Do you have new home construction that is affordably priced? Community leaders who can answer “yes” to both questions are well positioned to recruit new businesses and residents to their communities.