Nov. 03, 2025
Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC) has earned two prestigious awards from a national housing and community development organization for Liberty Place, a housing community for veterans at risk of homelessness, and the Pathways Program, which breaks down barriers to higher education and careers for youth.
The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) selected KCDC for a Community Innovation Awards in the categories of affordable housing for Liberty Place and in the resident and client services category for the Pathways Program.
“Both of these awards reflect a commitment to not just providing housing options for residents, but also addressing needs in the community through collaborative partnerships,” said Ben Bentley, executive director and CEO of KCDC. “Liberty Place meets an identified need to get veterans into a stable and safe environment with supportive services. The Pathways Program has helped young people learn about options during and after high school, including college and financial opportunities, trade school and workforce development and service to the community or the military.”
Liberty Place, located at 3627 Division St., in West Knoxville, is KCDC’s first housing site specifically for veterans and provides 32 one-bedroom units for veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The fully furnished units, which include 16 fully accessible ADA units, provide utilities and conveniences such as walk-in showers and on-site maintenance, along with an on-site Veterans Affairs office.
Pathways was a pilot program open to KCDC and Section 8 housing residents ages 16-24, launched with support from an Opportunity Youth Engagement Grant from the City of Knoxville’s Office of Community Safety to empower and inspire youth. KCDC partnered with the Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee, where the program now resides, to continue the program past the pilot phase.
KCDC received the awards Sept. 27 during a presentation ceremony at NAHRO’s 2025 National Conference and Exhibition in Phoenix, Arizona.
NAHRO, which was established in 1933, is a membership organization of more than 26,000 housing and community development providers and professionals throughout the United States. NAHRO members create and manage affordable housing for low- and middle-income families, and support vibrant communities that enhance the quality of life for all.
About Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation
Since 1936, KCDC has been dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the citizens of Knoxville. KCDC’s mission is to collaborate with the Knoxville community to create and preserve housing opportunities and strengthen neighborhoods. For more information, visit kcdc.org.
