Tina Wesson, recently voted the top "survivor" on the CBS show "Survivor: The Australian Outback," advocated for Habitat during a Women Build event in Knoxville, Tenn., in 2002.

Five Ways to Address NIMBY Through Advocacy

by Rebekah Daniel

1. Share the truth about Habitat.
In the absence of facts, rumors and hearsay can cause unnecessary damage to worthwhile building plans. Many rumors are based on false information, such as "Habitat is a government rental program" and "Those people get a house for free." Know the facts about Habitat so you can answer questions and correct faulty perceptions.

2. Research trends in local property values.
One of the most common protests against affordable housing is that it will negatively impact local property values. Many studies in different locations have shown that affordable housing actually can raise property values, but there's nothing like local information to put fears to rest. Enlist the aid of real estate agents to chart property values over time and determine the impact of Habitat housing in specific neighborhoods in your area. If this sounds like a big task, team up with a college student--many are required to complete research projects for their degrees and would take on the assignment.

3. Voice your support.
A few negative voices can quickly drown out a favorable, but passive, majority. Supportive letters to editors and conversations with elected officials can help provide a more balanced viewpoint for your peers and much-needed encouragement for affiliate staff members.

4. Find out what people are really afraid of.
Sometimes, the objections neighborhood residents cite for opposing a Habitat build are just what they seem--honest concerns about traffic, construction noise, damage to neighborhood roads. But other times, public objections can hide deeper, silent fears. For example, residents might be worried that a Habitat family from another culture could introduce different values or religions to their children, but they speak publicly about property values to avoid appearing racist. Knowing the true concerns of the community can help Habitat supporters work toward reconciliation.

5. Speak to elected officials.
Minimum house sizes, fence regulations, garage requirements and other zoning policies can be used to politely exclude low-income families from entire communities, leaving them no affordable place to live near their jobs, schools and places of worship. Encourage local officials, such as city council members and planning and zoning committees, to make your community a livable place for low-income families.