Anna Averett Johnson is no stranger to the world of housing. She is an urban planner herself, but she also grew up the daughter of a mission-minded home builder, the late Hal Averett.
“Growing up, my parents imparted to us that quality housing shouldn’t be a luxury and made sure we realized that not all children or families were fortunate to have a sturdy roof over their heads,” Anna said. “My dad (and often our family) was always involved in an array of volunteer efforts, whether through First Baptist Church, Victory Mission, or other organizations, serving low-income communities.”
Hal spent his last few years on Earth setting the wheels in motion on the project that has now become Elliott’s Walk, a new subdivision in South Columbus that will be house over 200 families. Hal served at Victory Mission in South Columbus with his church First Baptist. As a home builder, Hal knew that while it was helpful to serve the community, it could only do so much if those being served were then going home to substandard housing conditions.
He began scheming Elliott’s Walk with NeighborWorks® Columbus, First Baptist Church, and the Elliott family. In many ways, Anna is carrying on his legacy, as a monthly donor to NeighborWorks® Columbus in honor of her dad.
“I love everything about this organization which has fascinated me ever since I first learned about it through my dad, Hal Averett. Working in the urban planning field, I see first-hand the importance of meeting people where they are – and the positive impact it can have on a community. The impact of NeighborWorks is tangible and highlights the positive, permanent change that can happen by empowering community members and providing the tools and resources to those who may not have access to them otherwise,” she said.
Anna lives in Atlanta with her husband Tyler, her 16-month old daughter Hallie, who is named for her grandfather Hal, and her dog-child Mr. Hudson. She is an urban planner and designer in the City of Atlanta’s Office of Design, and her husband is the Director of Planning and Design for a boutique asset management and development firm.
“Working in the planning sector, especially in Atlanta, I see both the crucial need for providing all levels of affordable housing and the vast obstacles these developments often face. I also see a darker side of affordable housing, where quality is compromised because the tenants aren’t valued equal to higher-paying tenants. Which brings me back to my love for the NeighborWorks organization, and especially NeighborWorks® Columbus. Every customer is valued equally, quality design and construction is not a choice, but a requirement, and opportunity for home ownership is available to all.”
