Witlingo & RAD Conversions



What is RAD?

RAD (Rental Assistance Demonstration) is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program that allows public housing units to convert to long-term Section 8 contracts. This helps housing providers access private capital to rehabilitate, modernize, and preserve affordable housing stock—without increasing federal spending.


Why is communication so critical during a RAD conversion?

HUD requires resident engagement throughout the RAD process—including at least two formal meetings before conversion. But effective engagement goes far beyond compliance. Clear, consistent communication helps to:

  • Reduce resident anxiety

  • Prevent misunderstandings and resistance

  • Ensure equitable access to information across languages and channels

  • Build trust between staff and residents


What common communication challenges do RAD-engaged providers face?

  1. Multilingual populations: Many residents need content in languages other than English.

  2. Technology gaps: Residents may not use smartphones, email, or websites.

  3. Overloaded staff: Service coordinators and housing staff often lack time and tools for consistent outreach.

  4. Documentation gaps: Tracking engagement for HUD compliance can be burdensome.

  5. Fear and confusion: Without clear updates, residents may feel vulnerable or mistrustful.


How does Witlingo help with RAD-related communication?

Witlingo is a cloud-based communication platform designed for senior living and affordable housing providers. It enables you to:

  • Send updates via voice calls, text messages, emails, and web alerts

  • Automatically translate messages into multiple languages

  • Set up a resident hotline for on-demand updates

  • Schedule messages and track delivery

  • Generate compliance-ready reports with full audit trails


Is Witlingo only for RAD conversions?

Not at all. While Witlingo is especially helpful during RAD transitions, many clients use it year-round to:

  • Share event announcements and meeting reminders

  • Broadcast health and safety alerts

  • Distribute newsletters or bulletins

  • Provide family updates and resident surveys


Do I need IT staff or hardware to use Witlingo?

No. Witlingo requires zero IT setup. All you need is a web browser. Staff can log in, create messages, and communicate with residents without installing software or managing devices.


What types of messages can I send?

You can send:

  • Meeting announcements

  • Relocation instructions

  • Construction updates

  • Emergency alerts

  • FAQs and policy reminders

  • Welcome messages for returning residents

All messages can be scheduled, repeated, and tracked.


How do residents receive the messages?

Residents can receive communications via:

  • Text messages (SMS)

  • Automated phone calls (voicemail-compatible)

  • Emails (if available)

  • Web-based audio/text bulletins

  • Optional community hotline (call-in line for updates)

Witlingo is designed for accessibility—ideal for seniors, non-English speakers, and residents with limited tech access.


How does Witlingo handle language accessibility?

Witlingo supports automatic translation into dozens of languages. Whether your residents speak Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, or Mandarin, you can ensure they receive understandable messages—without manual translation work.


Can I track engagement and generate reports?

Yes. Witlingo provides detailed dashboards showing:

  • Who received each message

  • Which messages were opened or heard

  • Language preferences and delivery status

  • Exportable reports for internal tracking or HUD documentation


How quickly can I get started?

Most clients can begin within 48 hours of sign-up. Witlingo offers live training, pre-built RAD communication templates, and onboarding support to get your team up and running fast.


Is Witlingo affordable?

Witlingo is designed for housing providers operating on tight budgets. We offer flexible plans based on community size, with special access for organizations involved in RAD conversions. Contact us for a customized quote.


I’m not doing RAD yet. Should I still consider Witlingo?

Absolutely. Even outside of RAD, clear communication builds stronger communities. Whether you're managing day-to-day operations or preparing for future transitions, Witlingo helps streamline engagement and improve outcomes.


How do I learn more or request a demo?

Just visit www.witlingo.com or email us at info@witlingo.com to schedule a personalized demo. We'll walk you through the platform and answer any questions specific to your community or RAD timeline.

Get in touch with us