About Us

Our Role in the Community

CHOEDC was established in 2004 as a North Carolina-based 501(c)(3) organization with a clear purpose: to support communities through practical, coordinated solutions that address both immediate needs and long-term outcomes.

We understand that sustainable change requires more than one program or one solution. Our work spans housing, health, workforce development, and financial education because stability is built at the intersection of all four.

With decades of experience, HUD-certified counselors, community-based partnerships, and a presence across Eastern North Carolina, CHOEDC serves as both a trusted resource and a connector, helping individuals and communities move forward with clarity and confidence.

How We Support Community Stability

1. Understand the Need

We assess individual and community challenges through direct engagement, counseling, and data-informed planning.

2. Provide Coordinated Support
Through housing services, financial education, workforce development, health and wellness programs, and disaster recovery, we meet people where they are.

3. Build Toward Long-Term Stability
Our programs are designed to reduce barriers, strengthen self-sufficiency, and support lasting outcomes for individuals, families, and communities.

CHOEDC serves in 21 counties in Eastern North Carolina

CHOEDC currently serves communities in 21 counties across North Carolina, working in both urban and rural areas to expand access to housing, economic opportunity, and essential support services.t.

CHOEDC has served more than 31,300 individuals and families

Over the past five years alone, we have served more than 31,300 individuals and families, supporting housing stability, financial independence, workforce readiness, and health and wellness outcomes.

Why Community Development Matters

Stable housing supports better health. Financial education strengthens families. Workforce development fuels local economies. When communities have access to coordinated resources, they are better equipped to grow, recover, and thrive.

CHOEDC exists to ensure that opportunity is not determined by geography, income, or circumstance. Our work is grounded in the belief that when individuals are supported holistically, entire communities benefit.

Our Team

James Stroud

President/CEO
jstroud@choedc.org

LaTonya Harrison

Chief Financial Officer
finance@choedc.org

Terence Staten

Business and Community Development Director
tstaten@choedc.org

Susan Turci

Community Resource & HUD Certified Housing Counselor
sturci@choedc.org

Penny Carpenter

HUD Certified Housing & Rental Counselor
pcarpenter@choedc.org

Glyndola Massenburg-Beasley

Funding Development Officer
gbeasley@choedc.org

Nathan Farrior

Certified HUD & HECM Reverse Mortgage Counselor
nfarrior@choedc.org

Shantanu Gajjar

Community Support Specialist
sgajjar@choedc.org

Gertie Williams

Mental Health & Substance Abuse Manager
gertisin@gmail.com

Joe Allison

Housing Rehabilitation Specialist
info@choedc.org

DeAnna Thompson

Administrative Support
deanna@choedc.org

Board of Directors

Steve Drake
Law Offices of Steven A. Drake
(Board Chairman)

Sharon Moe
Senior Vice President, North State Bank
(Vice-Chairman)

Jason Harris
Regional Manager, Wolfe Financial, Inc.
(Treasurer)

Vickie Feaster-Fornville
Chapel Hill-Carrboro School Board
(Secretary)

James Stroud
Centre for Homeownership & EDC, Inc.
(Executive Director)

Doug Mollett
Workforce Development Manager, NCRC
(Director)

Julie Russ
Business Development Officer, First Citizens Bank
(Director)

Melvin Watson
NC Association of Realtors
(Director)

Alfredo Macias
AJ  Architecture Design
(Director)

Dylan Macias
Commercial & Residential Home Planning
(Director)

Darius Hunt
Wake County Government
(Director)

Vicki Pinson
Licensed Psychological Associate
(Board Member)

2024 Annual Report

Our 2024 Annual Report showcases a year of remarkable growth and community impact across Eastern North Carolina. In this report, you’ll discover how CHOEDC has empowered over 5,570 individuals and families through homeownership pathways, financial education, mental health services, and workforce development initiatives. From launching Project TRIUMPH to expanding our clean energy programs, we’re creating sustainable economic opportunities in 21 counties. The report highlights our strategic partnerships, program metrics, and vision for 2025 and beyond. Click below to explore our achievements and see how your support is transforming lives and communities.

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