Topeka Housing Authority ~ www.THA.gov

THA is committed to building and supporting strong Resident Associations. Each site has its own Resident Association and most of them meet on a monthly basis. The role of the Resident Association is to improve the quality of resident life by planning and supporting a variety of social and educational activities for site residents. These Associations are also committed to improving communications with THA.

There is also an umbrella organization called the Tenant Executive Board (TEB). The TEB is made up of representatives from each site's Resident Association. The TEB meets on a monthly basis, rotating the meeting place from site to site. The TEB is responsible for setting general policy for the operating of Resident Associations, improving communications between the Resident Associations and oversees the distribution of funds to the Resident Associations. Resident Associations receive their funding from three main sources: 1) THA provides $15 per year in "Tenant Participation Funds" for each family in Public Housing; 2) THA distributes all profits from the vending machines located at the various sites; and 3) individual Resident Associations do various fundraising activities.

When Tenant Associations accept Tenant Participation Funds they agree to use these funds for the following:

Spend no more than 10% of the funds on food or refreshments.
Sponsor the following events/activities.
- Plan and host an event where residents can review and comment on THA's Annual and Five-Year Plans.
- Survey residents for input and/or plan and host an event where residents review and comment on Capital Improvements proposals for their sites.
- Organize and implement a strategy for training residents in and promoting Safety and Security at the Public Housing site.
- Plan and implement Group Activities for residents of the Public Housing site.
- Plan and implement Educational Opportunities for residents of the Public Housing site.
- Plan and implement programs or activities that promote diversity, harmony and neighborliness.
- Receive input and recommendations from residents of the Public Housing site regarding ways THA can improve its way of doing business.
Develop a plan, strategy and a proposed budget for the use of allocated funds.
Provide adequate documentation for funds spent.
Have Officers participate in an annual Board and Officer Training event.