About Us
Community Empowerment Network (CEN) is a 501(c)(3) community development organization working to strengthen the economic and social foundation of low-income families. While our roots are in youth engagement and prevention — keeping young people safe, learning, and out of harm’s way — our mission has grown.
Today, we recognize that true empowerment begins with family stability, and that homeownership is an outcome of that stability — not the starting point.
To close the gap, CEN now provides hands-on programs that address the building blocks of wealth:
childcare, healthy food, workforce development, and financial coaching — all designed to prepare our families for long-term homeownership and real estate investment.
Our HomeStart Program was created to help first-time buyers and future landlords move from aspiration to action — through a practical, supportive process grounded in real-life needs.
We believe that everyone deserves a safe, stable, and affordable place to call Home
At CEN HomeStart, we work tirelessly to make owning a home — and keeping it — a reality for as many families as possible.
Our team of housing advisors, financial counselors, and community advocates are passionate about empowering our clients to reach their goals. Through wraparound services, we equip families with:
The education, confidence, and hands-on skills to navigate the homebuying and homeownership process
One-on-one financial strategy, credit-building support, and budget planning
Access to powerful family supports (childcare, food, workforce preparation) that help stabilize households so they can save, qualify, and succeed
We know the pathway to ownership can feel overwhelming — but with the right systems in place, it becomes achievable.
Because when families are stable, confident, and supported — homeownership stops being just a dream and becomes the next logical step.
We are committed to helping every family we serve move from renting to owning, from uncertainty to stability, and from survival to generational wealth building — and we invite you to join us in this vital work.
Community Empowerment Network, Inc.
166 Washington Avenue, Garden Unit
Albany, NY 12210
Copyright © 2024 Community Empowerment Network All rights reserved.