Commitment to Community
PATHWAYS THAT BUILD CAREERS—AND COMMUNITIES
2025 was another impactful year for C2C! Across all programs last year, Merritt invested $1.5M, supporting 739 participants.
The connectivity built across our programs is stronger than ever. C2C’s success is rooted in cross-sector collaboration: the partnerships we forge ensure that participants gain exposure to multiple perspectives and build relationships that extend far beyond Merritt.
In 2025, we honored Community HousingWorks (CHW) as the first recipient of our C2C Partner of the Year award, which recognizes organizations that embody the spirit of C2C. From hiring Merritt Scholars to serving as mentors and program partners, CHW’s commitment goes beyond participation. They truly invest in people and strengthen pathways into affordable housing careers.
To learn about the vast impact of C2C, please visit our 2025 C2C Annual Review, which recaps program highlights, key takeaways, and more:
Notably, we completed our first Job Demand Study! As the industry evolves, we must continue creating programs that prepare the next generation of housing leaders for meaningful careers.
“The purpose behind C2C is to carve pathways that lead to longevity and stability. In 2025, we systematized our programs to create a comprehensive, statewide initiative that strengthens the affordable housing ecosystem. By strategically investing in people, policy, and partnerships — we are building enduring systems, ensuring safe, stable housing remains within reach for generations to come.”
Merritt scholars
Asset Management Training (AMS+)
AMS+ continues to deepen its impact across the state. In partnership with CHAM, Merritt provided 20 asset managers with access to virtual and live instructor-led sessions, working group discussions, and opportunities for in-person networking.
Our most recent cohort represented different industry functions and career stages, with 70% of participants leveraging AMS+ to grow into new roles.
Rising Affordable Housing Management Professionals (RAMP)
RAMP prepares rising affordable housing professionals for stable, community-centered careers in property management. Through partnership with local community colleges, participants gain leadership opportunities and build transferable skills in operations, resident engagement, and real-world problem-solving.
By strengthening a critical workforce, RAMP helps address the affordable housing crisis— supporting the property managers who play a vital role in keeping residents safely housed.
Housing Development training institute (HDTI)
“Affordable housing isn’t built on good intentions alone—it’s built by people who know how to move projects from conception to construction. HDTI strengthens that talent pipeline by investing in project managers and emerging developers, including those who come from the communities they serve.
We’re grateful to partner with Merritt to grow a workforce that reflects lived experience, advances equity, and delivers durable housing outcomes.”
Statewide professional development programs
C2C is anchored in statewide partnerships – we’re proud to provide financial support to the following mission-driven organizations:
- California Coalition for Rural Housing
- California Housing Consortium
- Housing California
- Non-Profit Housing of Northern California
- Southern California Association of Non-Profit Housing
- San Diego Housing Federation
These organizations share our commitment to building an industry that reflects the communities it serves through programs that explicitly serve underrepresented communities, continuing to deepen their impact each year.
