paving the way for economic growth - Henry Ford Health System

RevitalizationLiving, Working and Investing in MidtownA Midtown area anchor, Henry Ford Health Systemteamed up with the University Cultural CenterAssociation, Wayne State University and TheDetroit Medical Center to offer financial incentivesto its employees who want to live and invest in aMidtown residence.“Employees who apply to the program can receiveup to $25,000 toward a new home purchaseand $2,500 toward a first-time rental within theLive Midtown boundaries,” explains Noel Baril,vice president, Talent Selection & Rewards. “TheMidtown area is a vibrant, growing community, andwe’re excited that so many of our employees areinterested in living in the community where theywork.” Current Midtown residents can also receivesubstantial incentives toward rent or exterior homeimprovements.Live Midtown incentives have encouraged homepurchases. In April 2011, 19 HFHS employees hadalready received funding, six for rent renewal, eightfor new rentals, and five for home purchase.Not only do home purchases help stabilize homeprices, Live Midtown also incentivizes exteriorhome improvements, which have a positive visualimpact on the area and bolster home values.“Local merchants, restaurants, and entertainmentvenues benefit from the increase in Midtownresidents who, as a result of the incentives, enjoyhigher discretionary income,”says Baril.According to Schantelle Steen (pictured on cover),admitting officer, Henry Ford Hospital, whopurchased a home with Live Midtown funding,“Everything I do is in Midtown. Kim’s Produce,Goodwells Natural Foods Market and the Avalonbakery are all close by. I like supporting localbusinesses and taking part in local activities, likejazz and coffee nights at the library.”Conceived in 2010 and launched in January 2011,Live Midtown will continue through 2011.Jamar Williams, retention coordinator, HAP, took advantage of Live Midtownfunding to purchase his 2,100-square-foot Midtown loft. Williams likes everythingabout his new home, from the high ceilings, open spaces and hardwood floors to thelocation, which allows him to walk to work, restaurants and the theater.8 Henry Ford Health System • 2010 - 2011 System Report