There's No Place Like Home: The Enduring Legacy of the San Diego Housing Federation Ruby Awards
There's No Place Like Home: The Enduring Legacy of the San Diego Housing Federation Ruby Awards
The journey down the yellow brick road to affordable housing in San Diego has been paved with dedication, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of community. For the San Diego Housing Federation (SDHF), this journey has been celebrated annually since 1994, when the first seeds of the Ruby Awards were sown during their annual conference. Two years later, in 1996, the Rubies blossomed into their own standalone event, marking a significant turning point in recognizing the vital work being done.
The very name, "Ruby Awards," carries a touch of whimsical wisdom, drawing inspiration from the beloved classic, "The Wizard of Oz." Like Dorothy's glittering ruby slippers, which ultimately held the power to transport her home with the help of her newfound friends, the Ruby Awards embody the belief that with community support, even seemingly insurmountable challenges in affordable housing can be overcome. As the program eloquently stated, "If only it were so easy today to tap our feet and give every San Diegan a place to call home!"
Honoring the Brains, Heart, and Courage Behind the Work
Just as Dorothy encountered flying monkeys and wicked witches, the affordable housing community has faced its own set of obstacles. Yet, mirroring the courage of the Lion, the heart of the Tin Man, and the brains of the Scarecrow, individuals and organizations have consistently risen to these challenges. The Ruby Awards serve as a platform to honor San Diego's very own "Dorothys, Scarecrows, Tinmen, and Lions" – those who tirelessly work to make the fundamental right of a home a reality for residents across the county.
Over the years, the Ruby Awards have evolved, solidifying key recurring themes and award categories that reflect the multifaceted nature of affordable housing advocacy and development. The Project of the Year award has consistently celebrated innovative and impactful housing developments. The Advocate Awards have shone a spotlight on the crucial voices championing policy changes and community support. Notably, the Lifetime Achievement Award evolved into the prestigious Housing Champion Award, recognizing individuals with enduring legacies.
Milestones and Meaningful Moments
Several significant milestones mark the Ruby Awards' impactful history. 1996 saw the inaugural presentation of the poignant John Craven Memorial Award, given in memory of John Craven, one of San Diego’s most prominent housing development officials. In 1997, the HIV Housing Committee presented its first two awards, highlighting the sector's commitment to serving diverse needs. 1998 introduced the vital category of Residents Involvement Program of the Year, later blossoming, in conjunction with "Affordable Housing Week," into the Resident Leader and Service to Residents awards, underscoring the importance of resident empowerment. For a brief moment in 2000, the awards playfully adopted the moniker "Nommy’s."
The spirit of the Ruby Awards took on profound significance in 2020 with the posthumous awarding of the Housing Champion Award to Richard “Rich” Juarez, a founding figure of the San Diego Housing Federation. His son's moving tribute to his tireless efforts in Barrio Logan paved the way for the establishment of the Rich Juarez Advocate Award in his honor, ensuring his legacy of integrity and activism would endure.
The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated virtual ceremonies in 2020 and 2021, demonstrating the community's resilience and commitment to honoring achievements despite unprecedented circumstances.
Today, the Ruby Awards stand as San Diego County’s largest affordable housing community recognition event, an annual testament to the incredible efforts and unwavering dedication of those striving to ensure everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home. This highly anticipated event not only recognizes extraordinary achievements but also serves as a vital source of inspiration, fostering continued commitment and innovation in the face of the ongoing housing crisis.
Join Us in Building the Future
As we reflect on the legacy of the Ruby Awards, from its humble beginnings at a conference to its status as a premier industry event, it's clear that the spirit of collaboration and innovation within San Diego's affordable housing community remains stronger than ever. Support the very mission celebrated at the Ruby Awards by donating to the San Diego Housing Federation here. Your contribution directly enables our efforts to advance affordable housing.
The San Diego Housing Federation and its steadfast supporters continue to lead the charge, driven by the unwavering belief that, indeed, there's no place like home, and that this fundamental right should be a reality for every San Diegan.