One of my blog goals is to highlight residents who do interesting things or in the case of Jeneen Smith-Underwood exceptional things!
Jeneen is a Round Lake resident and she received a prestigious award on May 13, 2005, at the YWCA Lake County 27th Annual Women of Achievement Awards. Through the years, more than one hundred women have been honored at this prestigious event. Their community service, professional achievement, integrity, leadership and dedication to the lives of others stand as a reflection of the YWCA’s historic mission and values. This annual tribute is an opportunity for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the economic empowerment of women and the elimination of racism.
Jeneen Smith-Underwood truly believes in giving "first-time homeowners an opportunity to purchase a home." In her role as the Neighborhood Services Coordinator for Round Lake Beach, she has successfully developed a program to acquire, rehabilitate and sell vacant homes in order to create affordable housing for lower income households. The Home Acquisition and Rehabilitation Program (HARP) was introduced in the spring of 2001 and has won three awards – Illinois Chapter of the American Planning Association, the LocalGovNews.org, and the Illinois Municipal League. In addition, Jeneen has also started the Rebuilding Together program to help low-income, elderly and disabled owners live in warmth, safety and independence by bringing skilled and unskilled volunteers together on one day each year to provide home repairs. Jeneen’s personal community-related contribution is to encourage young women to become their best by leading by example.
We should be proud of Jeneen and impressed by her commitment to her community and the area in general. Congratulations, Jeneen!
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