Bay Aging is proud to announce that Josh Gemerek, Senior Vice President at Bay Housing, has been recognized with the prestigious 2024 Game Changer Award at the Virginia Housing Alliance’s annual Housing Awards Ceremony held at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, VA. This event celebrates the exceptional contributions of individuals who have made significant advancements in affordable housing and efforts to end homelessness across the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Gemerek was one of nine incredible housing heroes honored at the 2024 awards ceremony. His leadership and dedication to expanding affordable housing options and improving the lives of vulnerable populations have made a lasting impact. Under his guidance, Bay Aging’s housing initiatives have grown, helping ensure more individuals and families have access to safe, affordable housing throughout the region.
“I am deeply honored to have been nominated by my Bay Aging co-workers,” said Gemerek when asked about receiving the award. “It is especially meaningful to be selected by my colleagues who provide leadership across the statewide affordable housing and services industry.”
Gemerek began his career at Bay Aging as a Housing Manager/Ombudsman and steadily rose through the ranks. Starting as a Property Manager, he advanced to Vice President, Property Management and Development, and then to Senior Vice President at Bay Housing, a role he has held since 2008. Over his 25-year career at Bay Aging, Gemerek has been a tireless advocate for individuals in need of housing assistance. He has identified and developed new housing resources, programs, and funding streams to facilitate the many affordable housing programs Bay Aging administers. This includes the production and operation of an extensive portfolio of service-enriched income-restricted supportive rental housing, the creation of a Homeless Solutions program designed to assist people experiencing homelessness, and the administration of a regional Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP).
One of Gemerek’s proudest achievements is securing approximately $40 million in affordable housing grants and loans, which contributed to the development of 373 affordable, service-enriched rental units across 12 projects under Bay Aging’s housing division. These financing sources include the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program, Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta’s Affordable Housing Program, and Virginia Housing Trust Fund, among others.
Gemerek also takes pride in his leadership related to Bay Aging’s role as the Lead Agency of the Northern Neck Middle Peninsula Housing Coalition, founded in 2013 as one of 12 Local Planning Groups under the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Balance of State Continuum of Care. He is a founding member of the organization and currently serves as Chair.
“We are thrilled to see Josh recognized for his hard work and passion in addressing housing challenges in our community,” said Kathy Vesley, President & CEO of Bay Aging. “His innovative approach and commitment to making a difference have truly been game-changing for Bay Aging and the people we serve.”
The Virginia Housing Alliance’s annual awards ceremony highlights the achievements of those working tirelessly to create equitable housing opportunities and combat homelessness across Virginia. Gemerek’s recognition as a Game Changer is a testament to his vision and the positive impact his efforts have made on countless lives.
