Darcel McDaniel

Educational Background

Associates Degree. Liberal Studies
National HUD Housing Counseling Certification
NCHEC Certifications: Financial Capability, Pre-purchase, Foreclosure Intervention, Rental, Homeownership Counseling foe Exec. Director and Program Managers
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency: Comprehensive Housing Counseling Initiative and Homeowners Emergency Assistance Program

Professional Experience

Darcel McDaniel is a National Certified HUD Housing Counselor and Homeownership Advisor at AHCOPA. Since joining the organization in 2021, she has championed the vital integration of trauma-informed care and counselor wellness into the housing arena, successfully implementing organization-wide self-care training. A visionary thought leader, Darcel co-developed the AHCOPA Academy—Philadelphia’s first learning pathway designed to equip future HUD counselors with the education, confidence, and self-care tools to help manage stress and pass the national certification exam.

With over 25 years of experience spanning counseling, administration, and negotiation, Darcel empowers both individual households and fellow industry professionals to create generational impact. Her deep expertise is backed by NCHEC certifications in Homeownership Counseling for Executive Directors and Program Managers, Foreclosure Intervention, Pre-Purchase Counseling, Financial Literacy, and Rental Counseling, alongside certifications from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) Homeowners Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (HEMAP) and Comprehensive Housing Counseling Initiative. Through group and one-on-one facilitation, Darcel continues to help foster resilient communities and train the next generation of housing leaders.

Why This Work Matters

This work matters to me because it allows me to educate others share knowledge and skills into others effecting change for generations.

Fun Fact

I played point guard in basketball and had a mean jump shot…