Mission
To Provide Comprehensive Services to Achieve And Preserve Equal Access to Housing For All People.
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Vision
To eliminate all forms of illegal discrimination related to housing. Through our research, advocacy, enforcement, community outreach, passionate staff and diverse board, we help more people achieve equal access to housing. We are recognized as one of the superior fair housing organizations in the nation.
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History
The Southwest Fair Housing Council (SWFHC) was established in 1986. We are a non-profit, tax-exempt fair housing organization based in Tucson, Arizona that provides services throughout Arizona. SWFHC advocates for and facilitates the enforcement of the Federal and State Fair Housing Acts in addition to the Non-discriminatory Ordinances of different Arizonan municipalities.
Meet the Team
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Jay Young
Executive Director
Jay Young leads Southwest Fair Housing Council as Executive Director. A passionate advocate for fair housing, Jay's commitment extends beyond his role. He actively contributes on the City of Tucson Planning Commission and Commission on Equitable Housing and Development, as well as the National Fair Housing Alliance board.
Jay's academic background strengthens his expertise. He holds a Master's in Planning from the University of Arizona, where he was a Peace Corps Fellow. This, combined with his Bachelor's in History from the University of North Carolina, equips him to understand historical contexts, social dynamics, and implement innovative solutions to housing challenges.
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Tasha Lynch
Manager of Operations and Investigations
Tasha has over a decade of experience in fair housing advocacy. During that time, she contributed to greater equity at the Denver Metro Fair Housing Center and, as of recently, Southwest Fair Housing Council. Her academic accomplishments further augment her expertise. She holds an undergraduate degree in Anthropology, which has given her a unique perspective on understanding the complexities of human societies. Additionally, Tasha earned a Master of Science in Urban Planning, enhancing her ability to execute effective strategies to address housing disparities and foster inclusive communities.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Tasha is a devoted parent to three children and shares her home with a dog and two cats. In her leisure time, she embraces the joys of family life and tends to her beloved pets.
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Cheri Horbacz
Director of Education & Outreach
Cheri Horbacz is a seasoned professional who has led the Education & Outreach program at Southwest Fair Housing Council (SWFHC) since 2006. As a Certified Statewide Instructor, she is dedicated to eliminating illegal discrimination in housing and abusive financial practices, safeguarding community housing rights.
With over eight years of experience in the mortgage industry, including management roles in Origination, Training, Fraud Investigation, and Prevention, Cheri brings valuable expertise to her role at SWFHC. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Arizona and an Associate's degree from Pima Community College in Business. Furthermore, Cheri is a Certified Instructor with the Arizona Department of Real Estate, highlighting her commitment to promoting fairness and integrity in the real estate sector.
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Erica Hardwick
Director of Enforcement
Prior to becoming the Director of Enforcement, Erica attended the UA, majoring in Anthropology and developing a concern for social justice. While working in the housing market as both a rental agent and property manager, her interest in fair housing issues led her to the SWFHC. After joining SWFHC, Erica began working in the Enforcement program and over the years, has been involved in numerous housing investigations. These investigations include two national testing projects, the Housing Discrimination Study and the Public Accommodations Enforcement Testing Project.
Erica spends her free time with her dog Joey, named after the influential heavyweight champion, Joe "the Brown Bomber" Louis.
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Estefany Gallego
Enforcement Specialist
Estefany holds an Associate's Degree in Paralegal Studies and previously worked as a Paralegal for the Pima County Prosecutors Office, criminal division. Her experience in the legal field has honed her skills in researching, analyzing, and navigating testing investigations.
Outside of work, Estefany loves spending time with her family, traveling to new places, and trying out exciting new things. Estefany strives to create positive change and advocate for those who have been unfairly treated.
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Celia Gastelum Leon
Celia is a dedicated Intake Specialist at SWFHC, bringing over three years of experience in housing and community services. She excels in managing intake processes and providing essential support to individuals seeking fair housing assistance, ensuring clients receive the guidance and resources needed to navigate housing challenges effectively.
Celia holds a degree in Law and Communication from the University of Arizona, blending a solid educational foundation with practical experience in fair housing advocacy. Outside work, Celia enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing board games, and reading.
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Tamillia Valenzuela (Bilingual)
Community Engagement Specialist
Tamillia is originally from Colorado but has lived in Arizona for over a decade. She has always had a deep passion for serving her community and uplifting others through organizing, education and connecting those around her to resources. She believes that everyone deserves a life with dignity and that housing is a right that everyone should have access to. She is excited to engage the community to have more knowledge about fair housing.
In her free time, she likes to spend it with her family and friends, arts and crafts projects and being in community.
“Beloved community is formed not by the eradication of difference but by its affirmation, by each of us claiming the identities and cultural legacies that shape who we are and how we live in the world.” -bell hooks