A Gift to Our Community: How One Resident Donated Her Home to Keep Housing Affordable
A Gift to Our Community: How One Resident Donated Her Home to Keep Housing Affordable
It’s not every day that someone donates their own home to help others. In January 2024, Blacksburg resident Victoria Lael did just that—donating her house to New River Home Trust (NRHT) with a powerful message: ensure ongoing opportunity for families in need.
From First-Time Buyer to Community Champion
Victoria first partnered with Community Housing Partners (CHP) in 2019, when their homebuyer counseling helped her achieve homeownership as a single mother. She recently decided to sell her property, covering only the remaining mortgage balance and donating all equity to NRHT. Going forward, the home will remain part of NRHT’s growing portfolio of permanently affordable homes.
A Legacy of Giving
Reflecting on her choice, Victoria said:
“I always thought if I didn’t need the home…and no one I know needed the home, I would love to sell it not for profit to someone who needed it.”
She sees this gift as a continuation of her parents’ values—helping others and giving back to the community that supported her.
Inspiring Community-Wide Impact
Victoria and her husband, Lou Madsen, didn't just contribute a house—they inspired a movement. Since the gift closed in late 2023, their home became one of six properties now entrusted to NRHT. Montgomery County, the Town of Blacksburg, and CHP all collaborate to ensure these homes remain affordable.
Jake Powell, CHP’s Director of Homeownership, praised their contribution:
“Victoria and Lou’s decision…demonstrates the power of community…reminding us that every person can play a role in ensuring the availability of affordable housing for all.”
What This Means for Our Community
For future homeowners: This home will remain permanently affordable to income-qualified buyers, preserving stability and opportunity.
For NRHT and partners: The donation helps grow an enduring stock of affordable homes in the New River Valley.
For our culture: It sets a powerful precedent—showing that personal generosity can create lasting, community-building change.
Join the Circle of Support
Donating a home to NRHT is more than just charity—it’s legacy work. If you’d like to contribute a property, land, or resources toward building community wealth, please reach out. Together, we can continue this tradition of giving, placing generosity at the heart of affordable housing.
Have questions about donating, buying, or supporting NRHT? Contact our team at NRHT@chpc2.org or call 540-260-9039. Let’s keep building a brighter future—one home at a time.
