TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Members of the community are raising awareness about fair housing.

On Thursday, Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennett read a proclamation in honor of National Fair Housing Month. Thursday’s event included the Diversity and Inclusion Committee and the Terre Haute Area Association of Realtors.

They want to ensure people know there are programs available to assist first-time homebuyers. Realtors discussed the importance of fair housing and how home ownership benefits the whole community.

“Statistics show that when we increase our homeownership rates, the socio-economic stability of the community actually enhances and increases,” said Nichole Jones, Managing Broker of Stone Realty Group and Chairperson of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

“Homeownership is the key. People will end up investing in the community if they are a part of the community,” said Tom Chiado, Realtor with Century 21 Elite and Vice President of the Terre Haute Area Association of Realtors.

The community is invited to a fair housing community event Saturday, April 22 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Vigo County Public Library in meeting rooms A and B. Residents will be able to learn more about fair housing and homeownership.