South Dakota Housing Awards Mike Walker with the Friend of Housing Award

“Friend of Housing” Award winner Mike Walker accepting the award for his outstanding commitment to affordable housing in South Dakota

Pierre, S.D. (6/26/25) – South Dakota Housing presented its “Friend of Housing” Award to Mike Walker at the annual statewide housing conference recently. South Dakota Housing presents the award annually to an individual who has made a commitment to affordable housing in South Dakota through their contributions, achievements and vision.

Since joining NeighborWorks in 2013, Mike has worked to create opportunities for affordable housing in the communities of Lead, Deadwood, Spearfish and Belle Fourche. His efforts include revitalizing infill lots, renovating deteriorated properties, partnering with local CTE students to relocate campus-built homes onto permanent foundations, and enhancing neighborhoods by replacing distressed areas with Governor’s homes.

In addition, Mike contributes his expertise through service on several boards and committees, including the Deadwood Lead Economic Development Board, the housing committee of the Belle Fourche Development Corporation, Homes for South Dakota, and the National NeighborWorks Loan Committee. He holds multiple professional credentials, including licenses as a mortgage loan originator and general contractor. He is also certified as a housing counselor by both HUD and NeighborWorks and serves as a USDA Rural Development certified intermediary for the 502 Direct Loan Program.

“Winning this award for Mike is a testament to his relentless drive and unwavering commitment to affordable housing” said Mike Harsma, director of single family development. “His passion and leadership have helped make significant progress not just in his local communities, but also across the state with his knowledge and ability to replicate his success statewide.”

The Friend of Housing Award was started 25 years ago to recognize individuals and/or companies who are instrumental in providing affordable housing in South Dakota. Annually, South Dakota Housing accepts nominations for the award and announces the recipient at their annual housing conference.

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About the Friend of Housing Award

The Friend of Housing award is given to an individual who has made an outstanding commitment to affordable housing in South Dakota through their tireless contributions, achievements and vision. It is given to those who have made affordable housing a large part of their life.

About South Dakota Housing

South Dakota Housing Development Authority was created by the South Dakota Legislature in 1973 with a stated mission to provide opportunities for quality, affordable housing for South Dakotans. South Dakota Housing is a self-supporting, nonprofit entity known for our commitment for providing innovative financing solutions to create and preserve affordable housing. South Dakota Housing utilizes housing bonds, tax credits, and other federal and state resources to fund housing programs which provide mortgage and downpayment assistance, housing construction and rehabilitation, homelessness prevention, rental assistance, and educational opportunities.

For More Information:

Chas Olson, Executive Director, SD Housing, 605.773.3181