Many Mansions celebrates 30 years of providing low-cost housing

Many Mansions kicked off its year of 30th anniversary celebrations on Aug. 24 with an event marking the completion of the $1.2-million rehabilitation of its largest complex, Shadow Hills in Thousand Oaks.

More than 75 dignitaries and associates attended.

In 1970 a small group of community leaders started a rental assistance program for struggling families. That program has grown into a nonprofit organization that is providing homes to more than 1,000 limited-income individuals. Many Mansions has built or rehabilitated 10 affordable housing communities.

In addition to housing, the organization provides its residents services such as an after-school homework and literary program, Camp Many Mansions in the summer, a teen leadership program, case management, lifeskills training and food assistance.

The organization is looking to expand with the acquisition of three acres on Hillcrest Avenue in Thousand Oaks and eight additional units of housing in Simi Valley for extremely low-income individuals with disabilities.

Scheduled events for this year include the State of Many Mansions Gathering on Oct. 23, Bowls of Hope Project on Nov. 2, Cheers to 30 Years event on Jan. 29, 2009, and the 30th Anniversary Gala on May 16, 2009.

For details, call Elaine Benditson, director of development, at (805) 496-4948, ext. 223, e-mail elaine@manymansion.org or visit www.manymansions.org.