Doreen Cato, a longtime community activist in Bellevue on behalf of the homeless and poor, will soon have nationwide influence. A King County Housing Authority Commissioner, Ms. Cato has been appointed to the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) Commissioners Committee.

"I am looking forward to serving as a member of the NAHRO Commissioners' Committee," said Ms. Cato. "This opportunity will enable me to learn, share ideas and help develop national policy recommendations that will assist commissioners at housing authorities around the nation in their decision-making. "

NAHRO strives to maintain and create affordable housing throughout the United States. The Commissioners Committee addresses a broad range of issues that come up for the commissioners of local housing authorities and community development agencies.

Ms. Cato is passionate about affordable housing issues. In addition to her position with KCHA’s board, she serves on the Washington State Advisory Council for Homelessness. She also is the executive director of First Place School, a nonprofit agency that assists homeless families and provides educational and social services to their elementary school-age children. Ms. Cato has received a number of awards including the City of Bellevue’s "Best of Bellevue" Seattle Human Services Coalition Advocacy Award and the Bellevue Business and Professional Women’s "Woman of the Year" Award.

"Doreen’s knowledge and experience will be invaluable to NAHRO as we strive to gain national support for workable housing and community development polices and programs. We must stress the importance of these programs to the low- and moderate-income people we serve," said NAHRO’s (incoming) President Kurt Creager. "Doreen will be critical in helping NAHRO achieve its goals of expanding affordable housing resources and revitalizing neighborhoods and communities."

The National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials is a 68-year old membership organization of 8,500 housing and community development professionals throughout the United States whose mission is to create affordable housing and safe, viable communities that enhance the quality of life for all Americans, especially those of low- and moderate-income. NAHRO ensures that housing and community development professionals have the leadership skills and education to serve communities; advocates for appropriate laws and policies; and fosters the highest standards of ethical behavior, service and accountability.