Hometown Summit: A Vision for Affordable Housing

Hometown Summit 2026 is a solutions-focused conversation bringing together leaders across housing, government, finance, development, education, and community services to address one of Detroit’s most urgent challenges: affordable housing.

Hosted by Wayne County Community College District and Neighborhood Service Organization, the summit will convene policymakers, developers, advocates, funders, landlords, courts, service providers, and community stakeholders to explore practical, collaborative solutions that support long-term housing stability and regional growth.

The event will feature keynote speaker Marcia L. Fudge, former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), alongside regional housing, policy, nonprofit, and community leaders.

Attendees will participate in discussions centered on:
• The future vision for affordable housing and regional success
• Construction challenges and housing sustainability
• Housing instability and support systems for vulnerable communities

Admission is free, but registration is encouraged as seating is limited.

EVENT AGENDA & FEATURED DISCUSSIONS

Welcome & Introductions

Opening remarks from Linda Little, President & CEO of Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO), and Dr. Curtis L. Ivery, Chancellor of Wayne County Community College District.

Keynote Address

The Honorable Marcia L. Fudge

Former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

PANEL 1 | THE VISION

Presenting a vision for affordable housing and regional success.

Moderated by:
Linda Little and Adam Hollier

Featuring:
Marcia L. Fudge

PANEL 2 | THE REALITY

"Can We Sustain the Housing Market?"

Practical construction challenges and inventory opportunities.

Featuring:
• Julie Schneider, City of Detroit Housing & Revitalization Department
• Real Estate Association of Developers (READ)
• 36th District Court Landlord-Tenant Division
• Home builders and housing funders

PANEL 3 | THE NEED

Shining a light on who needs housing and the structural battles being fought.

Featuring:
• Detroit District Action (DA)
• Bishop Charles H. Ellis III (focusing on youth aging out of foster care)
• Cheree Thomas (Domestic Violence Advocacy)
• Domestic violence advocacy leaders
• Right to Counsel experts

Closing Remarks

Closing reflections and next steps presented by Adam Hollier.

Topics Include

• Housing affordability and regional growth
• Construction and development challenges
• Housing inventory and sustainability
• Housing stability and eviction systems
• Cross-sector collaboration and innovation
• Workforce and community impact

Who Should Attend?

• Policymakers and government leaders
• Developers and housing professionals
• Nonprofit and community organizations
• Funders and financial institutions
• Housing advocates and service providers
• Educators and workforce leaders
• Community stakeholders