Denver, Co – October 2024 – The Housing Authority of the City and County of Denver (DHA) is proud to announce the appointment of Ms. Catherine Toner, an accomplished leader in impact investing and housing innovation, to its Board of Commissioners. With a background that spans innovative financial structuring, housing finance, and community-driven solutions, Ms. Toner is set to bring valuable expertise to the organization’s mission of providing equitable and affordable housing.
Charles Gilford, III, Board Chair, made this comment regarding Toner’s appointment and that of fellow new Commissioner, Charles Knight. “We are thrilled to welcome our new commissioners to the board. Their fresh perspectives and forward-thinking approaches will be instrumental in advancing our housing initiatives. Affordable housing is the humanitarian issue of our city and nation at large. Together, we are committed to creating impactful solutions that enhance our community and promote inclusivity for all.”
Ms. Toner, who currently serves as Managing Director of Impact Investing at Gary Community Ventures, has led investments and transformative initiatives aimed at increasing family economic mobility through housing finance innovations. Notably, Ms. Toner played a crucial role in the conceptualization and financial design of Proposition 123, the first successful statewide ballot measure to tackle the affordable housing crisis in the U.S.
Additionally, she led the structuring of The Dearfield Fund for Black Wealth, a pioneering fund designed to address the racial wealth gap by increasing access to homeownership for Black families in Denver. Her efforts have resulted in significant impact, with the Fund supporting hundreds of first-time homebuyers to date.
“We are excited to welcome Catherine to our Board of Commissioners,” said Joaquín Cintrón Vega, DHA’s Chief Executive Officer, “her deep and broad experience in impact investing and commitment to equitable housing solutions aligns perfectly with our goals of providing innovative and sustainable housing opportunities for all.”
“I am honored to join DHA and contribute to their important work in expanding access to affordable and sustainable housing,” said Ms. Toner, “I look forward to supporting the Authority in its efforts to implement innovative housing solutions that create long-lasting impact for our communities.”