In a world often fraught with challenges and adversity, one man’s journey from hardship to success shines as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless others. Meet Larry Laws, the Founder and President of First Home Alliance, a HUD-approved nonprofit organization that has transformed the lives of over 18,000 households. Through his dedication to financial literacy, homeownership, and community support, Larry Laws has not only conquered personal adversity but has also saved thousands from the brink of losing their homes.
Larry Laws’ story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Born and raised in the small town of Camden, Arkansas, Larry faced early hardships that drove him to seek a path to a brighter future. At the age of 18, he made the pivotal decision to join the United States Army, not only for the opportunity to travel but also to fund his college education. Little did he know that his journey would take a dramatic turn, one that would test his mettle in ways he could never have anticipated.
While serving in the military, Larry Laws encountered a life-altering false accusation in 1995. Falsely accused of kidnapping and robbery, he faced the specter of Class 2 felony charges, which could have resulted in a 20-year to life sentence. However, Larry’s strength of character and resolve prevailed as he navigated this harrowing ordeal, ultimately avoiding criminal charges. Rather than succumbing to victimhood, Larry chose to forge a path to homeownership and financial independence, not only for himself but for others as well.
Larry’s journey led to the creation of First Home Alliance, an organization born out of his unwavering passion to help others. Founded while he was still on active duty in the Army, this HUD-approved nonprofit agency focuses on teaching financial literacy and empowering low-to-moderate income families, particularly those in underserved communities and military veteran families, to become successful first-time homebuyers. Larry Laws’ personal experience, coupled with his dedication to his mother, who became a first-time homebuyer at the age of 65, has driven him to make a profound impact on the lives of countless families.
Larry Laws’ approach stands apart from other HUD-approved home counseling agencies. Rather than merely providing emergency assistance, First Home Alliance places education at the forefront of its mission. To date, the organization has empowered over 5,000 families with the knowledge and tools needed to embark on their homeownership journeys. Moreover, in the wake of the 2008 mortgage crisis, First Home Alliance emerged as a lifeline for 3,000 families on the brink of foreclosure, securing their homes and financial stability. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck and the need for housing counseling surged, Larry Laws and his team opened offices in Maryland and Chicago, extending their support to even more communities, including refugees in Chicago.
When asked for his best advice for those seeking success, Larry Laws replied, “The best advice for readers who desire to find success is to not let yourself become a victim of circumstance or hardship! Let those challenges strengthen you to create your own reality.”
To Larry Laws, success is not merely a destination; it’s a journey of self-discovery and purpose. As he continues to lead and expand First Home Alliance’s operations, his focus remains on increasing affordable housing opportunities through property management and housing development. Currently, Larry is working on a redevelopment project in collaboration with the American Legion to build veteran and workforce housing alongside a new post home in Manassas, Virginia. He also shares inspiring stories of community leaders on the Fairfax, Virginia cable access show “Rock Your Block.”
First Home Alliance’s Annual Financial Wellness Symposium and Awards Gala, scheduled for November 11th this year, promises to be a significant event aimed at enriching communities and helping individuals achieve the dream of homeownership.
Larry Laws’ journey from tragedy to triumph, his commitment to community empowerment, and his relentless pursuit of homeownership opportunities serve as an inspiring testament to the indomitable human spirit. In the face of adversity, Larry Laws stands as a living testament that challenges can indeed be the stepping stones to creating a brighter future for oneself and others.
For more information about Larry Laws and First Home Alliance, please visit FirstHomeAlliance.org, follow them on Facebook @1stHomeAlliance, Twitter @1stHomeAlliance, and Instagram @firsthomealliance, or email at Help@FirstHomeAlliance.org.
