Orange County NC Website
Browse       Search
7 <br /> Page 2 of 3 Richard Cooper <br /> Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest <br /> (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? <br /> Orange County Housing Authority Board <br /> Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board <br /> With years of experience in residential HVAC installation, maintenance, and safety compliance, <br /> I understand the critical relationship between housing quality, public health, and community <br /> development. My work in construction supervision and home safety gives me firsthand <br /> knowledge of what it takes to maintain safe, energy-efficient, and affordable housing. I am also <br /> trained in environmental safety (lead paint and asbestos certification), which aligns directly with <br /> the Housing Authoritya€TMs mission to ensure healthy living conditions. <br /> Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board <br /> I want to contribute to building stronger, more inclusive housing systems in Orange County. <br /> Access to safe, affordable housing is foundational to community well-being, and I believe my <br /> technical expertise and passion for mentorship can help inform programs that benefit working <br /> families, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. This is an opportunity to serve my <br /> community beyond my trade by supporting sustainable housing solutions and advocating for <br /> those most impacted by housing challenges. <br /> How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? <br /> I offer a working-class and service-based perspective that blends technical knowledge with <br /> lived empathy. My experiences growing up in and serving communities with housing disparities <br /> allow me to bring real-world insight into policy decisions. My approach is collaborative and <br /> grounded in equity; ensuring that the voices of everyday residents and tradespeople are <br /> reflected in housing discussions. <br /> Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest <br /> (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? <br /> Opioid Advisory Committee <br /> Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board <br /> Through my work in home services and mentorship, I have interacted with families and <br /> individuals affected by addiction, economic hardship, and trauma. My professional and <br /> volunteer experiences have strengthened my compassion for people facing recovery <br /> challenges and my understanding of how environmental stability and emotional support play a <br /> role in healing. As a certified coach and youth mentor, I emphasize holistic support addressing <br /> not just symptoms but the root causes of substance use through connection, purpose, and <br /> accountability. <br /> Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board <br /> I want to help reduce stigma and promote community-based solutions for opioid addiction. I <br /> have witnessed how the opioid crisis impacts families and neighborhoods, and I believe local <br /> collaboration is key to prevention and recovery. My goal is to contribute a grounded, empathetic <br /> voice to policies that expand access to treatment, education, and recovery support in Orange <br /> County. <br /> How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? <br /> I bring the perspective of a working professional, mentor, and community member who has <br /> seen the effects of addiction across different socioeconomic levels. My service experience <br /> allows me to connect authentically with people who may not trust traditional systems. I <br /> represent a viewpoint focused on compassion, real-world impact, and restoring hope through <br /> practical community action. <br />