Who We Are

Maria N. Gonzalez


President / CEO

As President for HACE, Maria Nixa Gonzalez heads HACE’s development team managing over $100M of commercial and housing development projects that have contributed to the stabilization and revitalization of the Fairhill and St. Hugh Neighborhoods. Since 1996, she has been responsible for raising development capital from a broad base of private and public foundations and governmental bodies.

Mrs. Gonzalez’ most notable achievement is the creation of a supportive community for elders through the development of affordable rental housing and the construction of a Life Center that provides frail elders with social and health services so that they can remain living at home for as long as possible.

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Our Board Members


Maria N. Gonzalez

President

HACE

Miguel Garcia

Board Chair

Rafael Porrata-Doria, Jr. Esq.

Vice Chair

Temple Law School

Gina Chapman

Director

Felicita Miranda

Director

Community Resident

Lynette M. Santiago-Lorenze, Esq.

Director

Erick A. Martinez

Treasurer/Secretary

Consultant

Yocasta Lora

Director

AARP-Pennsylvania

Javier Handal

Director

Philadelphia Fire Department

Our Impact


Because so much of HACE’s history has been working against the trend of disinvestment in its neighborhoods, our leaders have always understood the need for strategy, synergy, and partnerships. Strategy has been shaped through community-wide planning and teamwork, which has helped us to share a vision with our community partners of the future that we can work toward.

From inception, we understand the need for partnership with other entities that share our goals—particularly with nonprofits that specialize in education, recreation, social services, arts, and culture. These collaborations allow us to focus on what we do best: planning and envisioning, encouraging homeownership, working with the business community, developing “bricks and mortar” projects, and delivering social services to our residents.

$100+ Million

Over $100,000,000 of total economic development investments are managed or directly influenced as part of HACE's community leadership.

50+ Local Jobs

Created over 50 new jobs through the development of a food distribution facility in the American Street Empowerment Zone and the Mercy Life Center.

450+ Housing Units

Development and construction of over 450 units for affordable rental housing and first time home ownership.

485 Vacant Lots

Responsible for the rehabilitation and greening of over 485 formerly vacant lots.

68,000+ Square Feet

Acquisition and development of over 68,000 sq. ft. for affordable office and retail space that promotes a diverse mix of business and creates jobs in the commercial corridors.

$9.3+ Million

Over $9,300,000 contributed toward Infrastructure and Community Revitalization Programs through HACE's direct project management and community advocacy within the city.

16,000+ Individuals & Families

Over 16,000 families and individuals have received Housing Counseling to help build wealth through home ownership.

170 Senior Citizens

The development of the Mercy Life Center has helped over 170 seniors continue living interdependently in their community.