Launching the Affordable Housing Network

Pioneering Hope Through Affordable Housing in Columbus

On April 17th, 2025, something remarkable began in Columbus. Leaders from congregations, nonprofits, real estate, and city government gathered around a shared hope: that the collective Church could be the driving force behind safe, stable, and affordable housing for all.

For Columbus convened a room full of passionate practitioners from Habitat for Humanity, Hope Dealer, Star House, MiraCit CDC, Franklinton Rising, and more, and the vision was clear: the purpose went beyond addressing the housing crisis. It was about embodying the love of Christ, putting people before profits, and turning neighborhoods into flourishing communities that reflect the shalom of God.

Together, we dreamed: Wouldn’t it be great if the collective Church of Columbus united to support families into safe, stable homes—where housing was about people, not profits, and every faith community played a part in meeting real needs with joy and collaboration? Imagine Columbus leading the nation in attainable housing, powered by a Church alive with purpose, building not just houses but communities of hope.

A Strategic Start

Our first meeting wasn't just a time to talk. It was a time to act. Using the "Strategic Doing" process, we laid the groundwork to move from conversation to coordinated action. We asked ourselves tough questions:

• What could we do together?

• What should we do together?

• What will we do together?

We committed to a 30/30 plan: meeting again within 30 days, building momentum, and widening the circle. We agreed to survey our network, uncovering the assets—personal, organizational, church, and community—that we could leverage to make affordable housing a tangible reality.

Rooted in People, Not Programs

At the heart of every dream, plan, and strategy was a simple yet profound focus: Keep the focus on the person. We know that housing isn't just about buildings; it's about families. It's about dignity. It's about the Church stepping in to meet body and soul needs, reflecting the heart of Jesus in every relationship, every project, every neighborhood.

Why For Columbus Builds Networks Like This

For Columbus exists to unite the Church to be for the city. We believe that when the Church works together across denominational, racial, and geographic lines, we can make an eternal difference in the everyday challenges facing our neighbors. This newly developing affordable housing network is just one example of how collaboration can multiply impact. By bringing together practitioners, visionaries, advocates, and community members, we can address complex issues in ways no single church or organization can do alone.

If you share this vision, we invite you to join us—in prayer, asking God to move hearts and open doors; and in generosity, by giving to support this growing network and the work of gospel-saturated collaboration in Columbus. Your support fuels transformation.