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Southwest Strategies Finds Niche in Local Affordable Housing Industry

San Diego County is facing an economic downturn unlike any other this generation has experienced, with unemployment at 10.1 percent, state tax increases and a rising number of home foreclosures. While these factors have complicated the public policy issues facing the region and dominated the media, organizations dedicated to bettering the quality of life for hardworking members of the community need more help than ever to get their message out. This is where Southwest Strategies is making a difference.

Southwest Strategies, a leading public affairs and communications firm, has emerged as key player in public relations efforts for local affordable housing organizations. The company got its start in the affordable housing industry when it was hired in 2004 by the City of Poway Redevelopment Agency to help kick off Housing Solutions, a coalition of three award-winning affordable housing developers working in partnership with the City of Poway to create new housing opportunities for Poway residents. The program included a comprehensive research effort, message development, branding, Web site and collateral development and public education and outreach.

"The relationship we formed with Southwest Strategies while working on Housing Solutions has grown significantly throughout the last several years," said Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation President and CEO Ken Sauder, one of the founding members of Housing Solutions. "Since that time, they have played a pivotal role in our political and media relations strategy, as well as our signature grand opening events."

Southwest Strategies specializes in the development and implementation of strategic programs for businesses, non-profits and public agencies. The programs developed for affordable housing entities have included building brand awareness, fostering relationships with elected officials and community leaders, securing positive media coverage in online and print outlets and organizing grand openings for new communities.

"Our experience with Southwest Strategies has been that they understand the challenges and opportunities that nonprofits face," said Matt Jumper, President of San Diego Interfaith Housing Foundation and founding member of Housing Solutions. "They were able to help create unique a brand for our organization that sets us a part from our affordable housing colleagues."

As part of its overall strategic planning programs, Southwest Strategies has assisted affordable housing developers with research efforts, message development, corporate identity packages, collateral materials and Web site design. The company also offers media training for its clients.

Southwest Strategies over the past five years has helped a number of successful grand openings and coordinated the participation of elected officials at the local, state and federal level. The company has also secured media coverage for the events in The San Diego Union-Tribune, Daily Transcript, San Diego Business Journal, San Diego Metropolitan Magazine, Diario San Diego, local television and radio programs and environmental blogs.

"Our work with Housing Solutions provided us the opportunity to work with some of the best affordable housing developers in the region and paved the way for what would become a niche for our company," said Chris Wahl, President. "We are humbled that we have been allowed to play a part in such an important cause."

Southwest Strategies offers a full range of communications and strategic services for a diverse client list. Southwest Strategies' services include Public Affairs, Community Relations, Crisis Communications, Public Relations, Media Relations, and Government Affairs. Alan Ziegaus and Chris Wahl formed Southwest Strategies in April 2000. Both partners have extensive experience in public relations and public affairs. Southwest Strategies provides personalized and strategic marketing and public affairs services for businesses, non-profits and government agencies in the Southern California region.

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