Since 2021, Beacon Development Group has been proud to participate in the Housing Development Consortium’s (HDC) Housing Development Internship Program (HDIP). This transformative nine-month initiative is designed to empower students of color to become future leaders in the affordable housing sector. Our partnership with HDC through HDIP is pivotal in helping us serve our residents and clients, ensuring their voices are heard, and making a meaningful impact on the communities we support. By offering paid internships, hands-on experience in real estate development, and invaluable networking opportunities, HDIP is cultivating a diverse pipeline of talent and amplifying the voices essential for driving change in the affordable housing field.As Beth Boram, Director of Development, explains, “Beacon’s participation is important because it provides us with a path for creating greater diversity in the affordable housing sector. With this program, HDC is providing a resource that helps us meet our organizational goals.” Programs like HDIP not only give emerging leaders the chance to gain practical experience, but also build the connections and insights they will carry forward in their careers, championing the communities they serve.”
To date, Beacon has hosted three interns through the program, with Beth overseeing the internship experience. Our 2022 intern-turned-Housing Associate, Amar Halaweh, now mentors our current intern, Ethan Cano, who joined Beacon in October 2024. These talented individuals play pivotal roles in advancing our mission, inspiring the next generation of affordable housing professionals, and reinforcing our commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The partnership between Beacon and HDIP allows us to foster innovation and bring fresh perspectives to real estate development, making our housing solutions more responsive to the diverse needs of residents and communities.
Together, we’re amplifying the voices of those we serve and building stronger, more connected communities, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and accepting world.
Beth Boram: Mentoring Future Affordable Housing Leaders
Beth Boram, Beacon’s Director of Development, has firsthand experience with the power of internships. After graduating from Evergreen State College, Beth began her affordable housing career as a Volunteer in Service to America (VISTA). Her experience with the program was transformative, allowing her to gain practical skills while navigating the challenges of a transitioning nonprofit organization.
“Internships provide young professionals with access to opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable,” Beth says. “They also offer organizations like Beacon a chance to bring in passionate, driven individuals who want to learn and grow within the industry.”
Beth’s commitment to mentorship extends to her role overseeing the HDIP internship program at Beacon, where she actively fosters a collaborative learning environment. “Beacon is mission-driven, and our team is dedicated to providing opportunities for young professionals of color,” she adds.
Amar Halaweh: From Intern to Housing Associate
Amar Halaweh came to Beacon in 2022 as an HDIP intern while completing her senior year at the University of Washington. Amar’s passion for affordable housing was sparked when she studied the housing crisis in a market analysis class and saw its impact on Seattle’s rising homelessness rates. “It felt like it was meant to be when I received the internship opportunity. I saw it as a chance to do my part in addressing the housing crisis and start a career in something I was passionate about,” Amar recalls.
After a successful nine-month internship, Amar was offered a full-time position as a Housing Associate. “My internship experience was incredible. I was treated as a team member from day one and involved in a variety of projects. When the full-time opportunity came, it felt like the right move,” she says.
Now a mentor to current HDIP intern Ethan Cano, Amar actively supports the program’s new participants, ensuring that the collaborative, growth-focused environment continues for future interns.
Ethan Cano: The Next Generation of Affordable Housing Leaders
Ethan Cano, currently pursuing a Master of Architecture at the University of Washington, joined Beacon in October 2024 as an HDIP intern. With a background in architecture and sustainability, Ethan was drawn to affordable housing as a way to create positive community impact through design. “Affordable housing is an issue I’ve explored both academically and personally. I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to it,” says Ethan.
Ethan’s previous professional experience spanned various building types, but he knew his true passion lay in affordable housing. His excitement to apply for the HDIP internship stemmed from his desire to make a difference in the community. “Beacon is the first organization where I’ve had the opportunity to work on affordable housing in a professional capacity, and it’s been a fantastic learning experience,” he says.
Ethan’s enthusiasm and drive have made him a valuable addition to the Beacon team. As he embarks on his internship, he’s embraced each day as an opportunity to learn and contribute to the mission of affordable housing.
Words of Wisdom from Amar and Ethan for Future Interns
As experienced HDIP participants, both Amar and Ethan have valuable advice for future interns:
Amar: “Embrace the unknown and take things one day at a time. You don’t need to learn everything at once—everything will come naturally as you progress.”
Ethan: “Approach every day as a learning opportunity and a chance to help someone in need. That mindset has fueled my motivation and made my experience even more rewarding.”
Join the Housing Development Internship Program
Interested in making an impact on the affordable housing sector? Apply for the HDIP internship program through their website to learn more about application deadlines and requirements. To explore career opportunities at Beacon Development Group or our parent company, HumanGood, visit our careers page.
At Beacon, we remain committed to fostering diverse talent and developing the leaders of tomorrow in affordable housing.
HDIP Website: HDIP Information for Students – Housing Development Consortium
HumanGood Careers: Careers | HumanGood
Each program would prioritize individuals making below 30% AMI, but would stretch to support those making up to 60% AMI.
