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WCCA Director of Housing Programs, Sheryl Fortune, is retiring after a 33-year career with the nonprofit agency. During that time, Fortune has managed the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, implemented the agency’s highly successful Family Self-Sufficiency and HCV Home Ownership programs, assisted 59 families in becoming first-time home buyers, and enabled over 4,000 families and disabled individuals to have access to safe, affordable housing in our region.

Fortune initially began her career in 1988. She has also managed the Weatherization, Single Family Rehabilitation, and Urgent Repair programs for WCCA that helped low-income families remain in their homes. In the early 2000’s, Fortune initiated and assisted with the development of three low- income, multi-family housing developments in Brevard – English Hills Apartments, English House (supportive housing), and Excelsior Apartments. She has consistently achieved a “High Performer” designation for WCCA’s Housing Choice Voucher program.

Sheryl Fortune has provided her leadership and served on numerous national, regional, and local housing committees and community development boards responsible for making policy decisions and shaping all aspects of the affordable housing industry throughout the Southeastern United States. Throughout her career, Fortune has been passionate about helping people move from public assistance to independence. Her work with WCCA’s Family Self-Sufficiency and Home Ownership programs was recognized in 2013 when Fortune received the national Merit Award for Program Innovation from the National Assoc. of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO).

In 2015, she nurtured the program recipient of the prestigious Sargent Shriver Award from the National Community Action Association for these landmark programs.

After such amazing career, Fortune is able to look back and know that she made a difference.

Although humble about her many accomplishments, she admits that she is looking forward to retirement. Fortune has four children, 4 grandchildren, enjoys the outdoors, and is an accomplished ballroom dancer who competes in local and statewide competitions. When asked about how she feels about her career with WCCA and upcoming retirement, Fortune said “It is satisfying to know that I have had a hand in helping so many people live in decent and affordable homes. My success is the direct result of the great teammates I have had for all of these years. I will miss working with all of them and the many tenants and landlords we serve.”

Western Carolina Community Action is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization based in Hendersonville, NC that assists low income and underserved people in Western North Carolina. Working together with our communities and partners, WCCA improves people’s lives by creating pathways to self- reliance and healthier living. Our programs include Early Childhood Education, Housing Assistance, Apple Country Transportation, and Older Adults Services. For more information, please contact: Terri Bowman, TBowman@WCCA.org or call (828) 231-9549.