Affordable Housing Summit 2026

About The Summit

Wayne County Community College District and Neighborhood Service Organization are proud to host the Affordable Housing Summit 2026, 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.

This summit will convene policymakers, developers, advocates, funders, landlords, courts, service providers, educators, and community stakeholders to explore practical, collaborative solutions that support long-term housing stability and regional growth.
As housing affordability pressures continue to rise across Detroit and communities nationwide, meaningful cross-sector partnerships and action-oriented dialogue are more important than ever.

Attendees will also have opportunities to network and connect with leaders working across housing, nonprofit, government, finance, and development sectors.

Keynote Speaker
Marcia L. Fudge
Former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

Event Moderators Include
Linda Little
President & CEO
Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO)

Adam Hollier
Former Michigan State Senator
Former Director of Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency

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, regional growth, and cross-sector collaboration.
Moderated by: Linda Little & Adam Hollier
Featuring: Marcia L. Fudge

Panel 2 | THE REALITY
Exploring construction challenges, housing inventory, development barriers, and long-term market sustainability.
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
Highlighting housing instability, vulnerable communities, and supportive solutions for long-term impact.
Featuring:

Detroit District Action (DA)
Bishop Charles H. Ellis III
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

Register for the Summit

Admission is free, but registration is encouraged as seating is limited.
Join policymakers, developers, advocates, funders, and community leaders for an important regional conversation focused on building collaborative housing solutions for Detroit’s future.