The Community & Economic Development (CED) Committee operates as a department of the Urban Affairs Coalition (UAC), a Philadelphia-based non-profit focused on housing and economic development. Founded to serve the greater Philadelphia region, CED specializes in helping residents navigate complex housing and financial challenges, particularly those at risk of foreclosure or seeking to build homeownership. The organization is funded in part by the City of Philadelphia's Division of Housing & Community Development, giving it institutional support and community credibility.
CED offers a comprehensive suite of services centered on three core areas: foreclosure prevention through counseling and resource guides, homebuying assistance via the Philadelphia Home.Buy.Now employer-assisted housing program, and financial advancement through their Financial Advancement Network. Their Foreclosure Prevention Resource Center provides guidance to homeowners facing loss, while the Housing H.U.B and First Front Door Program offer additional support. The organization maintains a lender directory and hosts an Impact Development Roundtable for community stakeholders. All services are provided by a non-profit structure with professional staff including CED Contact Leslie Russell Winder.
CED distinguishes itself through its deep local integration in Philadelphia and partnership with a larger coalition framework. The organization produces proprietary resources like the 2020 Foreclosure Prevention Guide and current Home-Buy.Now Resource Packets. By being part of UAC and funded by city government, CED has institutional relationships and access to employer networks that enhance program offerings. This non-profit model ensures services prioritize consumer welfare over profit, with no transaction fees or predatory lending practices.
CED is genuinely focused on community development and financial inclusion, making it a legitimate free resource. However, their website lacks detailed information about specific counseling methodologies, waiting times for services, or measurable outcomes. The digital presence could be more robust regarding educational content. While their foreclosure prevention and homebuying programs appear legitimate, consumers should contact directly to understand eligibility requirements and program availability. For those in Philadelphia seeking non-profit housing counseling, CED represents a credible option.