ABOUT US: Housing And…— is a nonprofit membership collective of changemakers from the public, private, and social sectors working to advance affordable housing across the Capital Region of Baltimore, Washington, and Richmond. Rooted in the understanding that housing is the foundation for thriving communities, we embrace its intersection with issues such as education, health, and economic opportunity to drive meaningful, lasting change. Guided by our 2025–2028 Strategic Plan and longstanding values of Impact, Equity, Courage, Collaboration, and Our Members, we disrupt systems of inequity by activating our members through advocacy and programming that center diverse communities. Our name may have evolved, but our mission—and our commitment to building inclusive systems—remains steadfast.
Our Vision
VISION: Housing And envisions a future where diverse communities share equitably in the knowledge, wealth, and resources uniquely represented across Baltimore, Washington, and Richmond. As economic growth continues, so does the persistence of inequality—disproportionately impacting historically marginalized populations and limiting their ability to thrive. HAND remains steadfast in catalyzing research and solutions that fulfill the promise of a region where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Our Mission
THE MISSION: To cultivate a cross-sector community that centers affordable housing as the foundation for thriving, equitable communities—and advances its connection to health, education, and economic opportunity across the Capital Region.
THE IMPACT
Since incorporation, HAND has grown to over 450 dues-paying members that are working to build strong, vibrant communities throughout the Capital Region. The organization remains true to its mission of building the capacity of its membership, consistently training over 2,500 members each year.
Tagline
Tagline: At Housing And, we believe that a thriving community starts where housing, health, and economic opportunity meet. Our work recognizes that safe, affordable housing is the foundation—and when connected with strong health outcomes and economic mobility, it unlocks the full potential of individuals and families.
THE HISTORY
HISTORY: For over 30 years, Housing And has brought together a passionate community committed to solving the region’s housing affordability challenges. Founded in 1991 by John D. Spencer to support nonprofit real estate developers, the collective began with informal gatherings and peer learning—a spirit that continues today through our Training & Capacity Building Series. As the organization grew across the Capital Region, it formalized its structure, established a board, and earned nonprofit status in 1998. With leadership spanning from Jill C. Norcross to Heather Raspberry, and now Courtney Battle, Housing And continues to evolve—advancing a vision of diverse, inclusive communities where housing is the foundation for opportunity.
