Referrals to Community Resources
The Urban League of Kansas has been in Wichita, Kansas for over 60 years now and has established working relationships with private and public service agencies that may be able to assist clients in areas where the Urban League does not have expertise. Urban League staff are trained to successfully diagnose each client’s needs and determine the best resource to help them meet those needs. However Urban League staff will continue to provide case management services as needed, even after making referrals.
The Urban League of Kansas Housing Program division is a HUD-certified counseling agency.
HOUSING
The goal is to empower people to achieve economic self-sufficiency through homeownership and financial education. Counseling services are provided free of charge.
First- Time Homebuyer Education
The Urban League of Kansas and local partners facilitate between 6-12 first-time homebuyer education workshops each year. Workshops are held at the Urban League office or/and other locations within Wichita to allow for easy access for all interested residents. Individuals who attend the entire workshop receive a certificate that qualifies them for many local down-payment assistance programs.
Financial Education
The financial counseling program strives to make financial information as simple and easy to understand as possible. Free counseling and workshops in the areas of budgeting, money management, credit use and credit scores, holiday spending, sound money practices for youth, checking accounts, home buying, and many other topics. Workshops can be tailored to meet specific topic and time line needs.
Rental Counseling
The program provides quality education regarding the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords in Kansas. In addition, it provides information and referrals to housing and housing-related services in the community. These classes cover the basics of both the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords in Kansas as well as help in filling out leases, rental applications, mediation skills and notification procedures. Counseling services are available on an individual basis, however upon request, groups sessions can be scheduled.
Foreclosure Mitigation
The Foreclosure Mortgage Assistance program assists homeowners prevent the loss of their home, due to inability to keep up with mortgage payments. Services include comprehensive housing counseling for individuals facing foreclosure, loss mitigation services, mortgage lending assistance, debt reduction counseling and financial education.
Fair Housing
Fair Housing workshops help potential homebuyers, renters, potential renters, and borrowers recognize, avoid or overcome discriminatory practices related to housing. This service is performed utilizing resources available through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
