Judith Hermanson, president and CEO of IHC Global, speaks to members of the Housing Opportunity Working Group in East Peoria, Ill., as part of the Illinois REALTORS® Public Policy Meetings. Photo: Bill Kozar.

Housing plays a critical role in the overall well-being of communities worldwide, the leader of an organization devoted to creating sustainable and inclusive cities told members of Illinois REALTORS® Housing Opportunity Working Group on Tuesday.

Members of the Housing Opportunity Working Group listen to IHC Global President and CEO Jill Hermanson.

Judith Hermanson, president and CEO of IHC Global, told association members of her group’s efforts to work to eradicate world poverty. Housing is a catalyst for making positive change happen.

“Once people get clear title (to their land) there will be investment in the land, and the entire community benefits,” Hermanson said.

She provided an overview of the organization’s work, highlighting its stated goals of preparing cities to be resilient enough to deal with climate change, provide sustainable and affordable housing options and have access to adequate food.

The working group is chaired by REALTOR® Dale Taylor. It met at the Illinois REALTORS® Public Policy meetings.