The mission of Self-Help Enterprises is to improve the lives of low-income residents in the San Joaquin Valley through housing and related programs and services.

In supporting the efforts of low-income residents of the San Joaquin Valley to improve their living conditions, we are committed to dealing responsibly and ethically with participants, communities, funding agencies and each other. Toward this goal, the Board and staff of Self-Help Enterprises will incorporate these values in all we do.

Participants are our primary responsibility and will be treated with dignity and respect. In an atmosphere of trust, open communication will be the basis for responding to participants' identified needs. While receiving services, participants will have the opportunity to develop the skills which enable them to better provide for themselves and their communities. Our relationship will be one of working with, rather than working for, the individuals and families who participate in our program.

The involvement of communities in our local activities will be encouraged through open and honest communication. With respect for the democratic process, we will work cooperatively with communities and their officials to identify and address the needs of low-income residents. Communities will be kept aware of resources available to meet local needs.

We will operate in full cognizance and compliance with contractual relationships and honor the commitments we make with funding agencies. We will endeavor to contain costs while providing quality services. It is equally our responsibility to represent to funding agencies the needs of low-income people. While working cooperatively with agencies to improve the delivery of services, we will work to understand and respect the rationale of the regulatory process.

Within Self-Help Enterprises, personal and professional needs will be respected and the qualities of fairness and cooperation in staff relationships will be encouraged. Rights and responsibilities will be clearly stated. Fair and adequate compensation, opportunities for training and professional development, and a safe work environment will be provided to all staff.

These values will guide us as we represent the needs and wishes of low-income people to society at large. Participants, community members and all others will be encouraged to join in this mission to provide solutions to identified problems in the communities we serve.