provided to The Santiva Chronicle
The median age of Sanibel Island’s population is 68, and most people at that age choose to retire. Retirees are a vital part of the Sanibel community, but keeping the community and its economy vibrant also means attracting younger workers and families. Diana Wilson names Community Housing & Resources as a critical partner in that effort.
She points to an employee at Island Water Association, Inc., where she serves as general manager, as an example. He and his family live in CHR housing. “They have three children, and they have participated in community events, in Scouting, and they’re active in the school,” she said. “That is community. And it wouldn’t have been possible without CHR.”
Diana and her husband brought their own young family to Sanibel from Iowa in 2019. They were struck by the island community’s spirit and its commitment to preserving natural resources. “After Hurricane Ian, you saw the community really come together and support one another. There was a collective effort to restore the island community and its resources that is unique,” she said. “The other thing I’m drawn to is the recognition that you can enjoy and appreciate nature and live in harmony with it.”
Preserving that spirit means giving workers every opportunity to be part of it — a crucial role CHR plays. “Finding and keeping great talent is hard,” explained Diana. “CHR addresses that by providing affordable island housing for those who take advantage of it. That can remove one of the biggest barriers to hiring. CHR gives employees a chance to enjoy this beautiful island and live in the community they serve.”