Kimberly Clark-Williams
Kimberly Clark-Williams began this non-profit organization to assist homeowners in navigating the challenges of residing within an HOA community. She concluded that it was her passion to advocate as an ombudsman for every California HOA homeowner who may have issues with the management of their Association. She has served on the Board of her HOA, has completed extensive training and certification in HOA governance/leadership and continues to actively participate in monthly HOA professional development and board leadership trainings. She doesn’t proport in being an expert but does believe in being educated and informed on the issues at hand, including staying abreast and engaged in all current state legislative actions affecting HOA members (homeowners) and their associations in order to represent both herself and other homeowners statewide through her membership in Echo (Educational Community for HOA Homeowners) and CAI (Community Associations Institute – National and CAI-GLAC). She holds ECHO HOA University Certification, CAI-CID Law Certification, CAI Board Leadership Certification which serves as a foundation for effective HOA leadership, CAI Legal Forum-CID Certification, and CAI Essentials of Community Association Management Certification.  Kimberly holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Nonprofit Sector Management and master’s degrees in leadership & administration and counseling, in addition to having also attended Western State College of Law.
Why is There a Need for a Homeowner Advocate?
For many homeowners it is difficult interacting and getting results with their Homeowners Association (HOAs ) that is controlled by a HOA Board of Directors. Homeowners are frustrated with the property managers and management companies that act on behalf of the Association and in many cases with the attorneys and law firms who represent the Association. Based on a proliferation of blog posts, HOA news stories, and personal experiences in dealing with HOAs, I concluded that members of an HOA need assistance in dealing with their boards and management companies. There are no advocacy groups within California to represent HOA homeowners/members. This nonprofit organization will provide resources for every California HOA homeowner so that they have the tools to fight for their homeowner rights in dealing with everyday ongoing issues including legal issues that may arise.
An Advocate’s Role
Homeowners Associations are run by a Board of Directors who are elected by the members of the Association. An HOA advocate can be a real asset for homeowner members in addressing the board. They’re someone who may fight for the rights and interests of homeowners within the homeowners’ association. These advocates have some experience and research the rules, regulations, and bylaws of the HOA, so they can help homeowners understand their rights and responsibilities. They can assist in resolving disputes between homeowners and the association, providing guidance on how to navigate through conflicts. Whether it’s a disagreement over maintenance issues, architectural changes, or fee disputes, an HOA advocate can offer advice and support to homeowners, helping them communicate effectively with the association. HOA advocates can provide valuable resources and information about the framework and processes involved in dealing with the association. Ultimately, their role is to empower and assist homeowner members, advocating for fair treatment and a harmonious living environment within the community.