Program assists 1,000 Philadelphia homeowners in creating wills to safeguard their properties.

In a significant milestone for estate planning, the Will Power Program has successfully assisted 1,000 Philadelphians in creating wills, providing them with the means to secure their family homes and prevent potential disputes over property inheritance. Launched in late 2022, the program aims to support low- and moderate-income homeowners in navigating the often complex landscape of estate planning.

One participant, 72-year-old Vendetta Stephens, embodies the success of this initiative. Despite perceiving wills as something only the affluent require, Stephens has recognized the importance of estate planning as a means to protect her home in Olney, where she hosts her family for Sunday dinners. The program’s impact extends beyond individual families; it is designed to stabilize neighborhoods and mitigate the prevalence of “tangled titles,” a situation where property ownership becomes unclear after the homeowner passes away without a will.

On a recent Wednesday, the Affordable Housing Centers of Pennsylvania and Community Legal Services of Philadelphia celebrated the achievement at a ceremony held at Zion Baptist Church in North Philadelphia. The executive director of Community Legal Services, Debby Freedman, emphasized that wills are instrumental in building generational wealth and closing the racial wealth gap prevalent in the city. Approximately 70% of the individuals who have utilized this program are Black, with a median age of 69 and an annual income of around ,320.

Tangled titles pose a significant risk to homeowners, as they limit the ability to utilize home equity or sell properties and are often targets for scams. The Pew Charitable Trusts reported that over 10,400 homes in Philadelphia are affected by such issues, potentially jeopardizing .1 billion in generational wealth.

Recognizing the historic mistrust of formal institutions in Black and Latino communities, the Will Power Program has strategically partnered with trusted local entities, such as churches and community organizations, to facilitate workshops aimed at educating residents about their rights and options regarding their properties.

State Sen. Sharif Street recently announced a 0,000 allocation in state funding to continue supporting the program. Additional funding comes from various organizations, including Wells Fargo and the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. Mayor Cherelle Parker’s budget also sets aside .5 million to resolve tangled titles and encourage homeowners to draft wills as part of her Housing Opportunities Made Easy initiative.

As the program celebrates its initial success, organizers acknowledge that numerous families remain in need of guidance and support in the estate planning process. By fostering a culture of trust and education, the Will Power Program aims to further enhance the stability of homes and communities in Philadelphia.