Impact
Ush is committed to uplifting lives and communities in several meaningful ways. Our impact starts – though does not end – with new housing working people can afford.
As new stakeholders in the communities where we build, we embrace our privilege and responsibility to make broader contributions through actions such as hiring locally, respecting and advancing art and culture, and collaborations with community stakeholders.
Ush’s primary contribution to communities is the housing that we build
Ush finds sites in working communities in Southern California where we can quickly build and activate new housing
More people qualify to live with us, and all pay less than they would elsewhere
This means more expendable income for such priorities as saving for home or business, paying off student debt, and much more
Complementary Contributions
When we first evaluate a new investment opportunity, we actively begin learning the community’s wants and needs by reviewing demographic data, relevant press coverage, and talking to elected and appointed officials that serve the area, community leaders, local people and business owners and other stakeholders. We listen intently and thoughtfully build in a community enhancement program into our designs and budgets.
Case Study: 4252 Crenshaw
Starting in 2017, Ush engaged with community leaders in the Leimert Park community to inform the community about the planned project at 4252 Crenshaw. As a result of this outreach, we learned about topics that were top-of-mind for this community. These topics include art, job opportunities, local businesses, and parking.
Public Art
Our 4252 Crenshaw apartment building is steps from Leimert Park Village, a cultural hub for the Los Angeles Black community. Community leaders expressed support for a mural on the building that will advance efforts to establish this district as a cultural destination. Ush is working with local artists to install a 50-foot mural that will be unveiled in Fall 2020.
Local Hiring
Ush has hired numerous locals in the community to work permanently in the building and to help construct the building.
Support Local Businesses
Ush promotes and frequents local businesses, including Dulan’s, Earle’s, Miss Everything Entertainment, Swift Café, Hot and Cool, Harun Coffee, Barbara Morrison, Fernando Pullum Cultural Center, Dance Studio.
Parking District
Ush will be funding application costs for nearby residents to apply for a parking permit in the neighborhood.