Metro Housing|Boston is very pleased to honor Katherine Martinez with the 2020 Champions of Housing Rising Star Award. Katherine is the Executive Director of Lena Park Community Development Corporation, which serves parts of southwest Dorchester and northwest Mattapan neighborhoods with affordable housing and youth development.
Born and raised in Dorchester and Hyde Park, Katherine began her work in affordable housing as an Assistant Property Manager for Winn Residential. It was during that time that Katherine created a strong connection to her own community by placing numerous residents into affordable housing locations.
Katherine has been a fierce advocate for affordable housing via her work at the City of Boston’s Fair Housing & Equity office, and at the Somerville Community Action Coalition. Her previous experience includes Interim Director, Business Manager, and Operations Director of Lena Park CDC.
Earlier this year, Katharine oversaw the closing of $25.6 million in affordable housing financing through MassHousing for the renovation and extension of affordability for lower-income residents at the 143-unit Granite Lena Park in Dorchester.
Katherine’s commitment to affordable housing, public service, and equality helps to shape her work at Lena Park. She will receive the award during the Champions of Housing Celebration on November 4, 2020. For tickets and sponsorship information, go to bit.ly/2020COH