During his seven year tenure, Mr. Peterson led the growth of APAH’s portfolio to 752 apartment units through acquisition or redevelopment including Rosslyn Ridge, a 238 unit high rise currently under construction. His pioneering work includes the adoption of green building construction for affordable housing; redevelopment of existing properties to achieve greater density; and creation of the correct balance of market rate and affordable units in projects to ensure long-term financial viability.

“ Douglas will be greatly missed” noted Carolyn Settles, President of APAH, “not only by the board, staff, and the many friends of APAH, but also by public, private, and non-profit partners and community groups. Douglas’s ability to work with neighborhood groups and make our properties ones which are a source of pride to the community is legend. His knowledge, tenacity, creative and collaborative approach, and passion for our mission has enabled us to be highly successful despite the extraordinarily competitive and costly Arlington real estate market.”

During his tenure, important supportive housing partnerships were established including Project Hope with the Arlington Department of Human Services, a rental subsidy program that enables the mentally ill to live independently while still receiving essential case management and mental health services. Through a partnership with Borromeo Housing, two transitional apartments are provided to homeless young mothers while they finish high school or job training.

The regard in which Mr. Peterson and the organization are held was demonstrated when the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing was the only non-profit housing developer invited to participate in the Arlington County Board’s 2005-2006 Affordable Housing Roundtable. Under his leadership, APAH has also been recognized by the Smart Growth Alliance.

Through a national search, Nina Janopaul, a respected expert in both affordable housing and non-profit management, was hired to fill the position of Executive Director. Ms. Janopaul has over 25 years experience in the affordable housing field, including 22 years with Hostelling International. Most recently, she has consulted to Enterprise Community Investment Inc. on more than 150 proposed Low Income Housing Tax Credit projects around the country.

In announcing the hiring, Ms. Settles stated “We needed someone who had the right mix of professional qualifications in the complex field of real estate as well as experience in building non-profit organizations. Her commitment to providing safe and decent housing for low and moderate income people is needed to address the challenges and opportunities for affordable housing in Arlington. We feel very fortunate to have Nina join our organization. “

Founded in 1989, the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing is a nonprofit housing development corporation whose mission is to provide safe, affordable housing to residents throughout Arlington. For more information visit APAH online at www.apah.org.