The Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association opened applications for a six-month fellowship in the Massachusetts Housing Leadership Academy designed to address the state’s housing shortage.

CHAPA invited mayors, city and town councilors, planning and select board members, finance committee members and any members of boards and commissions who can impact housing to apply for the free program.

Attendees will learn about historic causes of housing scarcity and participate in workshops with experts.

“When we work towards creating more housing in every city and town, teachers, nurses and firefighters can afford to live near their workplace. People can downsize in the communities they love. College graduates can come home,” said CHAPA CEO Rachel Heller. “The Massachusetts Housing Leadership Academy will prepare local leaders to meet the housing needs of all members of their communities so everyone can thrive.”