IMPACT
in the Northern Hills
Your Generosity in Action
Thanks to your support, United Way of the Black Hills is proud to share real stories — told in the words of our partners — that show how your generosity is making a difference every day.
NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources
Kara came to NeighborWorks Dakota Home Resources (NWDHR) in October 2024 inquiring about down payment assistance. Speaking with a counselor, the best option found was to use NWDHR funds.
During the loan approval process Kara had a problem with her lender not being transparent. She spoke with the counselor about this and determined to find another lender before going forward. Ultimately, Kara found a lender she could trust.
As a single mother of two school aged children Kara had to be careful as her nursing salary did not allow much room for problems in purchasing her first home. Kara had not found a home to purchase when arriving at NWDHR.
While speaking with the counselor she learned that NWDHR was placing several Governor’s Houses. Kara discussed this option with both the counselor and lender and decided to purchase one in Belle Fourche. Along with this, Kara, with her new lender, opted to apply for a FHA loan as her best option.
In addition to the buyer-friendly FHA loan and NWDHR down payment assistance, Kara also received funds through the South Dakota Housing Grants for Grads program. With her tight schedule between work and family Kara completed the homebuyer education course with a one-on-one format allowing her to complete the course quickly and in a manner that fit her schedule. Kara finally closed on her new home in time to enjoy it for her first Christmas in her own home.
Thanks to generous donors like you, United Way of the Black Hills is able to make stories like this possible!