Community Development Long Island

Today, CDLI joins communities across the nation in recognizing Juneteenth, a day that commemorates freedom and marks a pivotal moment in American history.

Juneteenth honors June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that enslaved people were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Since then, the day has become a time for reflection, education, celebration, and recognition of the enduring contributions of Black Americans.

We encourage everyone to take time to learn more about the history and significance of Juneteenth and to reflect on the importance of equity, opportunity, and community.

Please note: CDLI offices will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026, in observance of Juneteenth.

💰 5 Tips to Build a Strong Financial Foundation

Financial security doesn't happen overnight. It starts with practical steps that help you take control of your finances and prepare for the future.

Consider these key strategies:
• Create and follow a budget
• Build an emergency savings fund
• Develop a plan to manage debt
• Monitor and strengthen your credit
• Save for long-term goals

These foundational habits can help you navigate life's challenges, prepare for major milestones like homeownership, and build lasting financial stability.

CDLI's Financial Capabilities program provides education, resources, and guidance to help individuals and families strengthen their financial future.

Learn more: https://cdli.org/financialfitness

🏡 Applications Are Still Being Accepted for Fieldstone at Commack!

Don't miss this opportunity to apply for affordable rental housing in Commack.

Fieldstone at Commack is a new 55+ community offering:
• 6 one-bedroom units
• 6 two-bedroom units
• Set-aside units for veterans and individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities

Applications are currently being accepted and will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. With a limited number of apartments available, interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

📍 Fieldstone at Commack, Commack, NY

Learn more and apply today:
https://cdli.org/fieldstone2

🏡 Join CDLI's 8-Hour First-Time Homebuyer Class This Saturday!

Preparation for homeownership starts long before you make an offer on a home. Whether you're ready to buy now or just beginning to explore your options, CDLI can help you become mortgage-ready through education, guidance, and personalized support.

Join us on Saturday, June 20 at 8:00 AM for our comprehensive Homebuyer Education Class, led by HUD-Certified Housing Counselors and housing industry professionals.

Topics include:
• Budgeting and credit management
• Mortgage financing and pre-approval
• Down payment assistance and grant opportunities
• The role of real estate agents, attorneys, and lenders
• The home inspection and closing process
• Steps to becoming a successful homeowner

Participants receive:
✔️ A HUD-approved Certificate of Completion
✔️ One-on-one counseling with a Housing Educator
✔️ A personalized action plan and resources
✔️ Guidance on available grants and homebuyer programs

Take the first step toward achieving your dream of homeownership.

Register today: https://cdli.org/homebuyer

Ready to take the first step toward homeownership?

CDLI's First-Time Homebuyer Classes provide the education, tools, and guidance needed to make informed decisions throughout the homebuying process.

Participants will learn about:
• Preparing finances for homeownership
• Credit and budgeting strategies
• The mortgage process
• Down payment assistance programs
• Working with real estate professionals
• Navigating the homebuying process from start to finish

Whether you're just beginning to explore homeownership or preparing to purchase a home, our classes can help you better understand your options and build a strong foundation for success.

Learn more and register at:
https://cdli.org/homebuyer

Community Development Long Island would like to thank Long Island Board of REALTORS, Inc. for inviting us to participate in the 38th Annual Education Conference & Trade Show, Elevate.

The event brought together real estate professionals, industry experts, and community partners from across Long Island to share knowledge, build connections, and discuss the future of housing in our region.

We were proud to showcase CDLI's programs and services, connect with attendees, and discuss opportunities to support homeownership, housing stability, and community development throughout Long Island.

Thank you to LIBOR for hosting another successful conference and to everyone who stopped by our table to learn more about our work.

We look forward to continuing to build partnerships that create opportunities for Long Island communities.

As part of NeighborWorks Weeks 2026, Community Development Long Island (CDLI) joined NeighborWorks America, lending partners, and community organizations to connect Long Island residents with the knowledge, resources, and relationships that help turn goals into opportunities.

Through two impactful events, CDLI brought together homebuyers, housing professionals, and community partners to support pathways to financial stability and homeownership:

🏠 Getting Your House in Order Workshop
Hosted in partnership with Family & Children's Association's SNUG Program, this workshop provided participants with practical tools and guidance to strengthen their financial readiness and prepare for future housing opportunities.

🏠 Meet the Lender Night
Attendees connected directly with lenders, learned about first-time homebuyer programs, and explored financing opportunities available across Long Island.

We would also like to extend a special thank you to Keith Getter of NeighborWorks America for joining us and helping highlight the importance of collaboration in expanding housing opportunity and community impact.

Together, these events embodied the NeighborWorks Weeks theme, "Creating Homes, Building America," demonstrating how collaboration can expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and support lasting housing success for Long Island residents.

NeighborWorks America Family & Children's Association SONYMA - State of New York Mortgage Agency City National Bank M&T Bank HSBC Bank of America TD East Coast Capital

Support for families. Incentives for landlords.

CDLI's Making Moves Program connects landlords with families using Housing Choice Vouchers who are seeking housing in Long Island's high-opportunity neighborhoods.

Participating landlords may be eligible for a $2,000 bonus while helping expand access to housing opportunities for local families.

Benefits of participating include:
• A $2,000 landlord incentive
• Support from CDLI staff throughout the process
• The opportunity to help strengthen communities and expand housing choice

Interested in learning more?

Visit: https://cdli.org/makingmoveslandlords

Everyone deserves the opportunity to live safely and independently at home.

Through CDLI's Access to Home for Heroes Program, eligible veterans and individuals with mobility limitations may receive up to $25,000 in forgivable loan funding for accessibility modifications that improve safety, mobility, and quality of life.

These improvements can help make everyday activities easier while allowing residents to remain in the homes and communities they love.

To learn more about eligibility and available funding, visit:
https://cdli.org/access

Life can change unexpectedly.

Many homeowners fall behind on their mortgage due to circumstances beyond their control, including:
• Loss of income or employment
• Unexpected medical expenses
• A death in the family
• Increased escrow payments
• Unexpected home repairs

The good news is that help is available.

CDLI provides free housing counseling services to help homeowners understand their options, access available assistance programs, and develop a path toward housing stability.

You do not have to face these challenges alone.

📞 631-471-1215 x5393
📧 [email protected]
🌐 https://cdli.org/savemyhome