Thousands flock to Raleigh for NACA's 'Achieve the Dream' homeownership event

This three-day event, hosted by the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA), drew people from all walks of life – from eager first-time homebuyers to those who had previously lost their homes.

All were united in their pursuit of a secure and stable future.

Dante Jackson is an underwriting manager with NACA.

He said they're expecting thousands of people to turn out for the three-day "Achieve the Dream" event hosted by Shaw University.

"They'll go through our initial workshop, our online workshop, which talks about budgeting, which talks about our program we offer, no down payment, no closing costs," Jackson said.

"Our interest rate is below prime. We don't look at your Fico score to qualify you. We are a character-based lender."

NACA is a non-profit with a mission of providing mortgages to low-income and middle-class residents who might not otherwise be able to afford a home.

The organization holds workshops like this around the country to connect people with their services

"You've got a lot of people doing the same thing you're doing, and they're motivating you, and it's actually a program that's giving you a step-by-step," said Nate Morris, first-time homebuyer.

It's been helpful for people like Morris, who has rented all his life but wants to leave something for his kids and grandkids.

"Just live the dream, the American dream, man," Morris said.

Applicants still need enough income to qualify, and they have to follow the many steps in the process.

"You can get frustrated and angry, but that anger is only turned at yourself when you don't follow through," said Kenny Williams, NACA volunteer and mortgage recipient.

Williams, who was able to get a NACA mortgage in 2019, said it's worth the hassle to turn those dreams into reality.

"If they follow directions, they've got a shot," he said.

NACA's Achieve the Dream event runs through Sunday in Raleigh.

Their services are still available, even once the event ends, through their local office on Pleasant Valley Road.