Who We Are

Mission and history

Our mission is to change lives and transform communities through high quality, affordable housing.

We’ve been making lives better since 1988. Launched by Richmond-area civic leaders Mary Tyler McClenahan and Carter McDowell, Better Housing Coalition combines long-term solutions in affordable housing with ongoing support services to revitalize entire communities.

To achieve this, the Coalition forms creative partnerships with public agencies, businesses, and other community-based organizations as well as grassroots neighborhood leadership. Operating as a private, non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, BHC has been recognized by the Fannie Mae Foundation, the National Public Health Association, HUD, Partners for Liveable Communities, and many local and regional organizations for its innovative leadership in community revitalization.

Read A History of Better Housing Coalition, written by BHC co-founder Carter McDowell.

View our staff directory, and meet our Board of Directors.