Building Pathways to Homeownership: BCCDC’s 19-Year Mission in Brooklyn

By: Janet Howard | Photo courtesy: Wayne Devonish

For nearly two decades, the Bedford Central Community Development Corporation (BCCDC) has been a cornerstone for Brooklyn residents pursuing the dream of homeownership. At the helm of this effort is community advocate Wayne Devonish, who first launched the Home Buyers Seminar Series more than 20 years ago. Since its adoption by a local church in 2006, the program has guided roughly 1,500 first-time buyers through the complex process of purchasing a home, offering both education and empowerment along the way.

A Unique 16-Week Journey

Unlike traditional workshops that often compress information into a few hours, the BCCDC series spans 16 weeks. Devonish emphasizes that the extended timeline allows participants to progress at a manageable pace, absorb information fully, and craft individualized plans for one of the most significant financial commitments of their lives. “We really take our time so that folks become well-informed consumers,” Devonish explained. “It’s a non-intimidating marketplace that we present so they can really take it in because it’s the biggest purchase of their lives.”

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Partnerships That Strengthen the Program

BCCDC’s success rests heavily on partnerships with banks, local organizations, and community leaders. Sponsors such as Flagstar, Chase, and M&T Bank not only underwrite the program but also lead instructional sessions. These collaborators ensure participants receive the most current information on lending practices, grant opportunities, and market conditions. Devonish notes that having experts in the room—such as longtime banking professional Aubrey Ners of M&T—adds credibility and practical insight that participants can immediately apply.

Financial Literacy Meets Practical Skills

The curriculum goes beyond financial preparation. Participants are also trained in basic home repair, equipping them to handle minor maintenance issues without incurring large costs. This combination of financial literacy and hands-on skills reflects BCCDC’s holistic approach. While grants and layered financing are explored, Devonish stresses a key message: “You’re not going to get a house based on grants. You really need to qualify on your own.”

Confronting Brooklyn’s Housing Challenges

Brooklyn’s high home prices—often exceeding one million dollars for modest properties—are a formidable barrier. The program addresses this head-on by educating participants on creative financing, grants, and partnerships that can make ownership attainable. According to Devonish, persistence and preparation are critical. “If you really, really want to do it, there are options that can get you there,” he explained.

Looking Ahead: Digital Reach and Global Vision

As the program celebrates its 19th year, BCCDC is exploring digital expansion, including livestreamed sessions through platforms like Facebook Live. This innovation is designed to extend the program’s reach beyond in-person sessions, making resources accessible to more people. The organization is also considering cross-border initiatives, including connections with Ghana, to support diaspora communities and promote intergenerational wealth-building.

A Personal Mission Rooted in Community

For Devonish, the mission is deeply personal. He describes his motivation as a desire to expand homeownership within Black, Caribbean, and African American communities—groups that historically face systemic barriers to building equity. “We definitely want to, especially within the Caribbean community, African-American community, Black folks in general, want them to have more homeownership, have something that they can pass down,” he said.

How to Get Involved

Residents interested in the Home Buyers Seminar Series can register at www.bedfordcentralcommunity.com. In addition to the comprehensive 16-week program, BCCDC hosts introductory events such as homebuyer expos that preview the seminar and connect attendees with industry experts. These entry points make it easier for residents to take the first step toward securing a home of their own.

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