WASHINGTON, April 28, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The foreclosure, neighborhood blight and natural disaster crises are having a disproportionate impact on minority communities, and minority-owned real estate businesses across the nation. As a result, the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB®), the oldest African American trade association of real estate business owners and professionals in the country, have positioned themselves with members of Congress, minority businesses, and granting agencies like the Salvation Army, to face these challenges head-on. The public is invited to learn more about these challenges and solutions, inclusive of a Congressional perspective, at NAREB®'s "State of Housing in Black America Issues Forum" (SHIBA) on Wednesday, May 2, 2012, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Howard University (Cramton Auditorium, 2455 Sixth Street, N. W.).

The Forum will feature interactive panel discussions with industry professionals and experts, and local and national political and community leaders, who will provide an in-depth analysis of research data, along with possible solutions, as it relates to foreclosure mitigation, neighborhood blight and disaster recovery, including the groundbreaking $1.8 billion Homeowner's Assurance Program (HAP).

The event is free, and will feature Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (MD), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, as the featured guest speaker, and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management, who will deliver opening remarks.

"NAREB® has seen the impact of Congress, especially the members of the Congressional Black Caucus, on homeownership solutions in the past," says NAREB® President, Julius Cartwright. "We recognize the importance of providing Congress with accurate and detailed information and recommendations on how to improve housing conditions in not only low and moderate income neighborhoods, but the surrounding communities as well. The mortgage fall-out has required federal intervention and private sector participation and capital, but many solutions have not been effective enough - – especially in minority communities. It is integral to NAREB®'s efforts, and in the best interest of our nation, that all of us work together on this."

For more information, visit www.narebSHIBA.com

SOURCE National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB)