Pathways Homeownership Program – Phase III NW Dayton

What is the Pathway to Homeownership Program? The highly successful Pathway to Homeownership Program originated in 2021 as part of the region’s tornado recovery work, and in its first two phases, built 19 homes for first-time homebuyers. The WPCU Sunshine Community Fund has committed to making an initial investment of $1.3 million to launch Phase III of the Pathway program in the Northwest Dayton Hope Zone. The WPCU Sunshine Community Fund’s anchor investment will enable the construction of new homes in Northwest Dayton for first-time, income-qualified buyers. Construction will begin on the first homes in summer 2025, with the goal of building 30 new homes over the next three years. These homes will be sold at market price, but eligible buyers will receive down payment and closing cost assistance to ensure that homeownership is accessible for local families. The Pathways to Homeownership Program needs to raise an additional $2.75 million within the first year to ensure long-term program sustainability.

“The WPCU Sunshine Community Fund’s investment in Northwest Dayton represents our commitment to supporting and revitalizing communities we serve,” said Ivy Glover, Interim Executive Director of the WPCU Sunshine Community Fund. “We are committed to making an impact - through collaboration, strategic funding and financial learning support - to strengthen the stability of the community, while creating a lasting impact on families for generations to come. WPCU's Sunshine Community Fund is committed to helping foster an environment where families are confident, equipped and have access to thriving homeownership options.   When families thrive - in homeownership and overall - communities thrive.” 

Northwest Dayton has faced significant challenges, including unsafe housing conditions, financial strain on residents, declining property values, and years of economic disinvestment. With 71% of residents renting and 43% being cost-burdened*, the need for stable and affordable homeownership opportunities is critical. 

“Wright-Patt Credit Union has helped many in our community achieve their homeownership dreams, and we are proud to support the WPCU Sunshine Community Fund’s work to help more families in Dayton build generational wealth,” said Tim Mislansky, President and CEO of WPCU. “By partnering with community organizations, we are building not just homes, but a strong foundation for the future of Northwest Dayton."

Donations can be made at our member centers or online here: WPCU Sunshine Community Fund  

“We believe many hands make light work.  This means each contribution – at any level – from credit union members, local businesses and foundations is combined to help us create something really powerful,” said Amber Rose, Development Director for WPCU Sunshine Community Fund. “Together, we can make the dream of homeownership a reality!”

Homeownership is a journey!  The WPCU Sunshine Community Fund has a homeownership program coordinator who can help you learn if this program, or another program from across our region, is the best fit for you. Complete this form to get started and learn more. Devony will be in touch!

The Pathways to Homeownership program is driven by a coalition of organizations dedicated to ensuring mortgage readiness and homeownership success, including: 

  • Learn to Earn Dayton 
  • County Corp 
  • Omega CDC
  • WPCU Sunshine Community Fund 
  • Wright-Patt Credit Union 
  • The HomeOwnership Center 

*Northwest Dayton neighborhood information and statistics above provided by Omega Community Development Corporation (Omega CDC).