YWCA Columbus 140th Anniversary Gala
Celebrating 140 Years of Impact
For 14 decades, YWCA Columbus has served our neighbors with compassion and raised our voices with boldness, often in the face of backlash and resistance. Guided by our commitment to peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all, we have remained steadfast in creating a stronger, more equitable community. Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate our rich history, honor those who have advanced our mission, and look ahead to the future of YWCA Columbus.
Gala Celebration: A Party with a Purpose
Orange Carpet Arrival, Pre-Reception & Interactive Exhibit
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM140th Anniversary Program and Party with a Purpose!
7:45 PM – 10:00 PM
Come dressed to celebrate, connect, and commemorate 140 years of impact—and help inspire the next chapter of change.
Deescalation Training
Overview
This training will cover the basics of de-escalation, specifically the use of strategies and techniques to reduce a person's agitation, aggression, and anxiety in a volatile or crisis situation. This is an essential skill for social workers, case workers and other social service providers who work with people in crisis. The training will be interactive, and feature opportunities to learn practical skills in de-escalation through a trauma informed lens.
Target Audience
All COHHIO member organizations and homeless assistance providers in the state of Ohio.
Dissemination
Program Managers, team leaders and staff.
Who Should Attend
This training will be open to all system partners.
Continuing Education Credits
CEUs are not available for this training.
Training Agreement
By accepting this invitation, you agree to:
Come ready to engage in an interactive virtual training
Share your knowledge and experience with others
Video camera turned on (If possible)
Learn more: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/JecH2KXuS1G2-ldESyvGyA#/registration
COHHIO Statehouse Advocacy Day
Join COHHIO in Columbus for a day of collective advocacy and connection at the Ohio Statehouse on Wednesday, October 7, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Advocacy Day is your opportunity to meet face-to-face with your local Statehouse legislators and tell them what they need to know about homelessness and housing insecurity in your community. Your knowledge and experience provides the critical information they need to support the policies and funding necessary to help us address Ohio's housing crisis!
COHHIO staff make direct advocacy easy for you! Here's how it works:
When you sign up for Advocacy Day, we'll group you with other local advocates and schedule meetings with your state senator, representative, and their staff at their offices in Columbus.
We'll host two advocacy online trainings to prepare you for success (see signup info below).
We'll assign experienced team leaders will guide each small group, but everyone is a full participant and everyone gets a chance to speak during the meetings.
Between your meetings, we'll feed you breakfast and lunch - all for free!
Learn more: https://cohhio.org/statehouse-advocacy-day-2026/
21st Century ROAD to Housing – What Matters Now to the Midwest
21st Century ROAD to Housing – What Matters Now to the Midwest
Hi Carlie,
We want to flag an error in our previous email for 21st Century ROAD to Housing – What Matters Now to the Midwest — it listed the wrong time. The correct time is:
Tuesday October 8 at 11:00 am - 12:30 pm ET.
The event page has the accurate time and details.
We apologize for the confusion, and hope to see you there.
Housing Court for Good: Innovative Policy Solutions to Promote Housing Stability
Join NLIHC on October 8 for Our Next State and Local Tenant Protections Network Call, “Housing Court for Good: Innovative Policy Solutions to Promote Housing Stability”
By Nada Hussein, NLIHC State & Local Research Analyst
Join NLIHC on October 8 for the next State and Local Tenant Protections Network call, “Housing Court for Good: Innovative Policy Solutions to Promote Housing Stability.”
Read more of this article here
Celebrate the Resilient
Join Community Housing Network for an unforgettable evening dedicated to honoring resilience and transforming lives. Our signature annual fundraising event brings together supporters, partners, and community members to celebrate the power of stable housing and the strength of those we serve.
The evening will feature powerful, firsthand stories from individuals whose lives have been changed through permanent supportive housing.
Guests will enjoy:
Heavy hors d’oeuvres and a selection of spirits
A brief program featuring stories of resilience and our second annual Impact Awards
Live entertainment by Cleveland Keys Dueling Pianos
Exciting raffle opportunities and prizes
Meaningful connection with others who believe in housing as a foundation for stability and healing
Your participation directly supports Community Housing Network’s mission to provide permanent supportive housing for individuals and families who have experienced chronic homelessness and are living with mental health challenges or other disabling conditions.
With a safe, stable place to call home, residents can begin to rebuild their lives, improve their health, and move forward with dignity and hope.
Let's celebrate resilience and empower stability together.
Learn more: https://support.chninc.org/for/ctr2026/event/celebrate/
Freedom Dreams - Wealth Beyond Money
Freedom Dreams – Wealth Beyond Money
You are invited to an evening with author and historian Dr. LaShawn Harris, hosted by Carl Faller and Mary Finnegan Thursday, October 8 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at
The Kitchen
231 E Livingston Ave
Columbus, OH 43215
Moderated by Amelia Robinson of The Columbus Dispatch, the evening will feature a discussion of Tell Her Story, Dr. Harris’ powerful account of Eleanor Bumpurs and the broader intersections of housing, race, dignity and justice.
The conversation will also highlight the work of Families Flourish and its commitment to helping families access stable housing, build economic security and create stronger futures for themselves and their children. Together, we will consider what true freedom, opportunity and wealth beyond money can mean for families and communities.
LookBack: A 25 Year Columbus Retrospective
LookBack: A 25 Year Columbus Retrospective
October 8, 2026 07:00p.m.
$20.00
Columbus Underground is celebrating 25 years all throughout 2026, and at this event we’re taking a look back at how much the city has changed over the past quarter-century. Former Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman and Michael Wilkos (United Way of Central Ohio) will take part in a moderated panel discussion, hosted by CU Reporter Brent Warren. Topics include population growth, neighborhood change, development, transportation, arts, culture and more!
Learn more: https://boxoffice.upfrontps.org/event/lookback-a-25-year-columbus-retrospective/
Fair Housing Basics
Overview
An introduction to federal, state and local legal protections from housingdiscrimination, recourses for victims, and opportunities for advocates
Target Audience
All COHHIO member organizations and homeless assistance providers in the state of Ohio.
Dissemination
Program Managers, team leaders and staff.
Who Should Attend
This training will be open to all system partners.
Continuing Education Credits
CEUs are not available for this training.
Training Agreement
By accepting this invitation, you agree to:
Come ready to engage in an interactive virtual training
Share your knowledge and experience with others
Video camera turned on (If possible)
Learn more: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/1VZOfDOiRROcXHwUyj1-NQ#/registration
Voice & Vision
Homeport will host the 2026 Voice & Vision celebration in the Short North Ballroom at the Greater Columbus Convention Center on Wednesday, October 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Homeport is proud to celebrate 12 years of Voice & Vision, an event we host to celebrate peer leaders in affordable housing and show our gratitude to the partners who make our work possible. Voice & Vision also allows us to show the impact of that support – the communities created, the clients who became first-time homeowners, and the residents who benefited from our service and resource connection.
To learn more about Homeport, including Voice & Vision sponsorship opportunities, contact Homeport Senior Director of Resource Development Laverne D. Price at laverne.price@homeportohio.org or 614 545-4891.
Learn more: https://www.homeportohio.org/voiceandvision
Housing That Works for Everyone
Central Ohio is growing—but its housing supply isn’t keeping pace. For every 2.5 jobs created in the region, just one new home is built. The result is a widening gap that’s driving up costs, pushing working families farther from jobs, and putting stable housing out of reach for too many.
At the same time, the challenge is more complex than supply alone: it’s deeply connected to economic mobility, workforce growth, transportation, and long-standing inequities that still shape our neighborhoods today. And while Columbus has made historic investments and laid out an ambitious strategy to build, preserve, and expand housing opportunities, leaders agree: the city can’t solve this alone.
In this in-depth conversation, Charles Hillman, President & CEO of the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority, joins Michael Wilkos, Vice President of Community Engagement at United Way of Central Ohio, to explore what’s really driving the housing crisis—and what it will take to address it at scale.
From affordability and zoning to regional coordination and public-private partnerships, we examine the tough tradeoffs and urgent decisions facing Central Ohio. What’s working? What’s not? And what happens if we don’t move fast enough?
Featuring Charles Hillman, President & CEO, The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority with moderator Michael Wilkos, Vice President of Community Engagement, The United Way of Central Ohio.
Learn more: https://columbusmetroclub.org/event/housing-that-works-for-everyone/
Inclusive by Design
Inclusive by Design
Accessibility isn't just compliance - it's what keeps community development ecosystems resilient. Like a flower that thrives when its environment is adapted, organizations grow stronger when they build workplaces where all staff can succeed.
This FREE seminar shows nonprofits how to make accessibility practical, low-cost, and mission-aligned — even with small teams and limited capacity.
You'll leave with:
A clear understanding of neurodivergence and low-cost ways to make your workplace more accessible
How accessible workplaces reduce burnout, retain talent, and unlock your team's full potential
Why accessibility isn't separate from your mission; it's how you model the equity you want to see in your community
You don't need a big budget or an HR department to get started. In today's workplace, embracing neurodiversity and accessibility isn't just inclusion; it's strategy.
Learn more: https://web.ohiocdc.org/atlas/events/inclusive-by-design--1115/details
Equitable Homeownership Solutions in an Evolving Landscape
Equitable Homeownership Solutions in an Evolving Landscape
Who is keeping housing justice at the top of Central Ohio's agenda?
Join CONVERGENCE Columbus, NAREB, and the National Fair Housing Alliance as we break down the 2026 State of Housing in Black America (SHIBA) report and the Fair Housing Trends report, and build real solutions to protect and expand homeownership for Black, minority, and first-generation families.
Affordable Housing in Central Ohio
Not a member? Set up a profile here to register for this class: https://form.columbusrealtors.com/d72cc1b7-0cf0-4f58-8c46-cf28bc17838f
This Lunch & Learn is brought to you by Columbus REALTORS® Affiliate Member Park National Bank
Affordable Housing in Central Ohio with instructor Leah Evan
2 HRS CE
Lunch by Blue Bow Tie
Learn more: https://columbusrealtors.com/events/affordable-housing-in-central-ohio-e8bf1720
Homebuyer Workshop
Are you thinking about buying a home?
Park National Bank’s $15,000 grant makes the dream more doable! Please join them for a free, informational homebuyer workshop in a relaxed setting.
Doors open at 5:00 and our presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. Come a little early and enjoy a complimentary meal. Door prizes will be given away, too!
Park’s community home lenders will discuss:
• Park’s new $15,000 home loan grant program
• 100% financing options • The homebuying process
• Managing, building and improving your credit
• What it means to prequalify and how to do it
Learn more: https://parknationalcorp.com/common/mortgage/col_homebuyer_workshop_olg.pdf
Bloom614 Decoding the Housing Market: No Tricks, Just Treats
Bloom614 Decoding the Housing Market: No Tricks, Just Treats
Columbus is one of the hottest housing markets in the nation. With rising prices, corporate investors snatching up homes, and high interest rates, homeownership feels increasingly out of reach for countless families. For many, the process of buying a home feels scary and less secure than ever before.
That’s why you’re invited to join Bloom614 and the National Fair Housing Alliance for an inclusive family event that connects you to reliable information, trusted partners, and free resources to move through your homeownership journey with confidence.
Columbus Airport Marriott
1375 N Cassady Ave, Columbus, Ohio, 43219, Columbus, OH 43219
View on map
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
06:00pm - 08:00pm
Ripple of Hope 2026
Ripple of Hope Awards Celebration
IMPACT Community Action has prioritized the fight against poverty and has worked to address its root causes in Central Ohio for almost 20 years. Each year, we support individuals in our community through a variety of services, including housing stability, utility assistance, emergency rental aid, workforce development training, youth services, and energy efficiency programs.
This year’s theme, “Let's Get Back To Work,” focuses on workforce development that empowers Columbus residents to build the skills, confidence, and connections needed to succeed in today’s labor market. The goal is to support their journey toward long-term economic security — including financial stability, self-sufficiency, and lasting opportunities for those in our community.
We invite you to join us on Thursday, October 22, 2026, for the Annual Ripple of Hope Awards Celebration at The Boat House, located at 679 W Spring St, Columbus, OH. The afternoon will honor community leaders who are making a tangible difference in the fight against poverty. Proceeds from the event will directly support our ongoing programs. Your participation and support will help make this event a success, and create the next drop in the ripple effect!
Housing Forward Columbus
When it comes to affordable housing, we know the WHY.
It’s Time to focus on the HOW.
Not just another event about the scarcity of affordable homes, Housing Forward Columbus will offer key decision-makers a rare opportunity to engage in candid discussions about how to make affordable feasible. This unique networking opportunity and expert panel presentation will provide insights that help design a more complete blueprint of what works – and what more could be done - to successfully build, finance, approve, support and operate affordable housing.
Join us: Friday, October 23, 2026 6–9 p.m.
Doors open at 6, Program starts at 7.
The Little Grand Market | Upstairs
710 Grandview Xing Way, Columbus, OH 43215
Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/housing-forward-columbus-tickets-2000320592740
Community Engagement Strategies
Community Engagement Strategies for Economic Development
Friday, October 30, 2026
10:30 - 11:30 AM
In partnership between the Ohio Economic Development Association and MurphyEpson
Economic developers need to be ready for and get ahead of questions surrounding projects and their hot topics like data centers, renewable energy, rezoning, affordable housing, and more.
Today, opposition is organized, trust is low, and the stakes are high. MurphyEpson’s communications and engagement professionals work with public, private and nonprofit clients to bring communities along every day.
Please join us for a practical dialogue on community engagement strategies for economic development on Friday, October 30, 2026 at 10:30am.
This webinar will help you:
- Anticipate tough questions
- Engage residents and community organizations
- Prepare partners and elected officials
- Build a communications strategy
- Work with the media
- Address misinformation
- Build trust before opposition gains momentum
Learn more: https://oeda.wildapricot.org/event-6846705
Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic
Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic
Attorneys will be available to give advice on rent escrow and will answer questions like: Is the case ready to file? What are the next steps after filing?
Location: Franklin County Municipal Court, 3rd floor, outside of the rent escrow clerk window. All times are 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Dates:
July 1
August 3
September 1
October 1
November 2
December 1
Leveraging Public Incentives for Community Development
Leveraging Public Incentives for Community Development
Join Taylor Stepp, Founder & President of Strategic Development Partners for a webinar covering:
- Adding tax incentives such as tax abatements, New Community Authorities, and Tax Incrememnt Financing to projects.
- Leveraging the Vibrant Community program from JobsOhio for mixed-use development.
- Financing projects with tools such as PACE, New Markets Tax Credits, Opportunity Zones, and other loan programs.
Learn more: https://web.ohiocdc.org/atlas/events/leveraging-public-incentives-for-community-development-1117/details
Columbus Redevelopment Corporation - 2nd Annual Event
Columbus Redevelopment Corporation - 2nd Annual Event
Celebrate CRC’s progress, hear what’s ahead for 2027, and join a conversation about inclusive housing for people with disabilities.
Join the Columbus Redevelopment Corporation staff and board for our 2nd Annual Event as we celebrate the past year and look ahead to 2027.
We’ll share updates on CRC’s development projects, partnerships, and technical assistance work, as well as lessons we’ve learned while working to expand affordable and attainable housing opportunities throughout Columbus.
The evening will also feature a conversation about housing opportunities for people with disabilities. We’ll explore the need for more accessible and inclusive housing and the roles developers, policymakers, nonprofits, and communities can play in creating it.
Come connect with CRC’s board, staff, partners, and friends as we reflect on our progress and the work ahead.
Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/columbus-redevelopment-corporation-2nd-annual-event-tickets-2000518889852
Rethinking Housing
Rethinking Housing
People • Property • Capital • Partnerships
📅 Friday, November 6, 2026
⏰ 4:30–9:30 PM
📍 Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus Dublin
5100 Upper Metro Place, Dublin, OH 43017
Hors d'oeuvres • Development • Connections • Happy Hour 🥂
Building for the Future has always been about bringing the right mix of people into the room.
This year, we're bringing together professionals across real estate, housing, construction, development and capital to have meaningful conversations about how housing gets created, financed, built, operated and connected to the people who need it.
We'll hear perspectives from single family and multifamily developers, lenders and capital professionals, shared-living developers, housing and community organizations, and professionals working directly with families and housing needs.
And we're doing it a little differently.
Our featured guests will have an opportunity to share their individual perspectives before coming together for a 90-minute Developers & Decision Makers panel focused on:
People. Property. Capital. Partnerships.
Then we're closing out the evening the way some of the best business relationships begin with cocktails, conversation and time to actually connect. 🥂
Who should be in the room?
Developers. Investors. Property owners. General contractors and trades. Architects. Engineers. Lenders. Bankers. Realtors. Brokers. Property managers. Housing organizations. Nonprofits. Suppliers. Consultants. Attorneys. Accountants. Title and insurance professionals. Emerging developers and anyone whose work touches real estate, housing, construction or development.
Different perspectives. One room.
We're also opening opportunities for featured speakers, VIP tables and industry vendors.
I've attached information for anyone interested in being considered as a featured guest, reserving a VIP table for their company or guests, or participating as an industry vendor.
Tickets will be opening soon.
If you had Saturday, November 7 saved, please update your calendar to:
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 | 4:30–9:30 PM
I'm excited about this one. I want this to be a room where you enjoy yourself, learn something, meet someone new and leave with at least one connection you need to call on Monday.
Come ready to learn, connect, collaborate, invest and celebrate.
Housing People. Building Possibilities.
See you November 6! 🥂
ADUs: Where Are We Now?
ADUs: Where Are We Now?
In 2025, the City of Columbus beacme one of the first communities to re-legalize Accessory Dwelling Units to expand housing choices for residents and help members of the community age in place.
Join a virtual community conversation with the architect of that policy change, Former Councilmember Otto Beatty, Columbus’ Building & Zoning Services, and advocates from around the region to discuss what has happened since, where housing barriers remain, and what the future may hold.
Virtual location
You will receive a confirmation email with a URL.
Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic
Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic
Attorneys will be available to give advice on rent escrow and will answer questions like: Is the case ready to file? What are the next steps after filing?
Location: Franklin County Municipal Court, 3rd floor, outside of the rent escrow clerk window. All times are 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Dates:
July 1
August 3
September 1
October 1
November 2
December 1
Housing That Works for Everyone
Jeffrey Family Fund Forum: Promoting a Thriving, Equitable and Sustainable Community
Central Ohio is growing—but its housing supply isn’t keeping pace. For every 2.5 jobs created in the region, just one new home is built. The result is a widening gap that’s driving up costs, pushing working families farther from jobs, and putting stable housing out of reach for too many.
At the same time, the challenge is more complex than supply alone: it’s deeply connected to economic mobility, workforce growth, transportation, and long-standing inequities that still shape our neighborhoods today. And while Columbus has made historic investments and laid out an ambitious strategy to build, preserve, and expand housing opportunities, leaders agree: the city can’t solve this alone.
In this in-depth conversation, Charles Hillman, President & CEO of the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority, joins Michael Wilkos, Vice President of Community Engagement at United Way of Central Ohio, to explore what’s really driving the housing crisis—and what it will take to address it at scale.
From affordability and zoning to regional coordination and public-private partnerships, we examine the tough tradeoffs and urgent decisions facing Central Ohio. What’s working? What’s not? And what happens if we don’t move fast enough?
Featuring Charles Hillman, President & CEO, The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority with moderator Michael Wilkos, Vice President of Community Engagement, The United Way of Central Ohio.
If you would like to dive more deeply into this topic, our friends at the Columbus Metropolitan Library suggest checking out American Dream Come True: Why Affordable Housing is Good Policy, Good Business, and Good for America, by Tony Bertoldi, 2024.
Learn more: https://columbusmetroclub.org/event/housing-that-works-for-everyone/
"Is the time right for the manufactured housing sector to deliver affordable homeownership opportunities?”
Participants
Casey Dawkins (Professor of Urban Studies and Planning and Associate Dean for Research, University of Maryland
Tara Roche (Project Director, Housing Policy Initiative, The Pew Charitable Trusts)
Karl Eckhart (VP, State & Local Government Affairs, National Association of Home Builders)
Policy Forum Recording (coming soon)
Description:
The forum will open with a short presentation from Casey Dawkins. The panelists will then discuss the evolution of the manufactured housing sector, whether the new rules and potential small-mortgage pilot programs might unlock the industry, and what is necessary for the sector to thrive as an important component of the housing market.
Speakers:
Casey J. Dawkins is a Professor of Urban Studies and Planning, Associate Dean for Research, and a faculty member of the National Center for Smart Growth at the University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation. He is also an Associate Editor for the journal Housing Policy Debate and serves on the Maryland Board of Architects. His current research addresses federal affordable housing policy, manufactured housing, and the link between local land use regulations and housing affordability.
Tara Roche leads Pew’s housing policy initiative, conducting original analyses of the safety, affordability, and availability of small mortgages and alternative financial arrangements used to purchase manufactured homes and other low-cost housing. Roche’s previous Pew work focused on researching everyday financial products—including small-dollar loans, mobile payments, and student loans—to inform policy recommendations that protect consumers from harmful practices and promote safe, transparent credit.
Karl Eckhart is Vice President of Intergovernmental Affairs at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), where he works with state and local home builder associations on housing advocacy. He rejoined NAHB in 2017, after earlier roles at NAHB and the National Association of REALTORS.
Learn more: https://areuea.memberclicks.net/manufactured-housing
Coffee & Whatever
Coffee & Whatever
First Fridays at Noon
Have a wild idea you want to soundboard? Looking to vent (fair, TBH)? Seeking a new nerdy housing friend? Want to give & get book recommendations? Just enjoy espresso and good company? Join AHACO’s Coffee & Whatever for unstructured fun.
We’ll meet on the first Friday of each month at noon at a local coffee shop.
October 2 is at Stauf's Coffee Roasters 627 S 3rd St #1060, Columbus, OH 43206. We’ll grab a table in the back room (or the patio if the weather ho
No gilded invites, no RSVPs, just swing by and grab a coffee.
Conversations are always free, but drinks are on your own dime.
The Magnetic City: Competing Through Experience in Columbus
The Magnetic City: Competing Through Experience in Columbus
Join us for a co-hosted conversation featuring the next installment of The Ohio State University Center for Real Estate's Fireside Chat Series and Gensler's 2026 Design Forecast.
As Columbus continues to grow, the question is not only what the city builds next, but how it feels to live, work, invest, and spend time here. Grounded in Gensler's 2026 Design Forecast and the Center's ongoing dialogue around Columbus's future, this panel will explore how design, development, financing, and policy can come together to create more connected, vibrant, and magnetic places.
Through perspectives across real estate, design, development, civic leadership, and academia, the conversation will examine how Columbus can compete through experience, not just development, by strengthening its urban core, activating the ground plane, supporting everyday uses, and connecting districts into a more cohesive city experience.
Space is limited. Reservations will be honored on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVP today!
Thursday, october 1
4:00 - 6:30PM EST
the blackwell
2110 Tuttle Park Pl, Columbus, OH 43210
Learn more: https://www3.gensler.com/lp/2026columbusdesignforecastlive-osu
Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic
Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic
Attorneys will be available to give advice on rent escrow and will answer questions like: Is the case ready to file? What are the next steps after filing?
Location: Franklin County Municipal Court, 3rd floor, outside of the rent escrow clerk window. All times are 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Dates:
July 1
August 3
September 1
October 1
November 2
December 1
A Home Is More Than Four Walls: What Creates Stability and Belonging?
About This Event
Having a place to live is essential, but a home is more than a roof and four walls. Together, we’ll explore what people need to feel safe, stable, connected, and part of their community, and consider how all of us can help create communities where everyone has the opportunity to belong.
About The Big Table
The Big Table® is an annual community-wide event and initiative of The Columbus Foundation designed to inspire civic engagement, meaningful conversation, and connection across Central Ohio.
At a time when many people feel increasingly isolated or disconnected, creating opportunities for genuine human connection matters more than ever. Through intentional dialogue, Big Table participants are invited to meet new people, share their experiences and perspectives, listen to one another, and explore how we can build a kinder, stronger, and more connected community—where everyone has a seat at the table.
The Big Table is free and open to all!
Learn more: https://support.chninc.org/for/thebigtableregistration2026/event/morethan4walls/
A Place for All People
A Place for All People
Homelessness is on the rise and we are all seeing the effects. Come discuss the causes and collective solutions with all of us that are directly impacted.
Sept. 29, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
946 Parsons Ave, Columbus Ohio, 43206
Homeless Prevention Training: The Resilient Housing Initative
COHHIO Training Announcement
Homelessness Prevention: The Resilient Housing Initative
Date: September 29, 2026
Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Format: Virtual
Trainer: Rebecca Brown, Project Manager for the City of Columbus; Ashley Orr, Assistant Professor at the Ohio State University, John Glenn College of Public Affairs
Overview
This training will focus on the resilient Housing Initiative, a pilot program through the City of Columbus that focuses on how to increase housing stability among low-income renters at risk of eviction or entering into homelessness.
Target Audience
All COHHIO member organizations and homeless assistance providers in the state of Ohio.
Dissemination
Program Managers, team leaders and staff.
Who Should Attend
This training will be open to all system partners.
Continuing Education Credits
CEUs will not be offered for this training.
Training Agreement
By accepting this invitation, you agree to:
Come ready to engage in an interactive virtual training
Share your knowledge and experience with others
Video camera turned on (If possible)
Learn more: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/0GGTwJ04SRiIG8xqckiZQg#/registration
Homebuyer Seminars
Join Park National Bank for one of their free, informational homebuyer workshops in a relaxed setting. These sessions aim to provide credit and financial education; inform prospective borrowers of our products and services; and to encourage them on the path to homeownership.
First Church of God, 3480 Refugee Road, Columbus
September 22 | 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
This session will feature Lawernce Funderburke of Funderburke Institute of Financial Empowerment. Doors open with refreshments at 5:00 p.m. and the presentation begins at 5:30 p.m. Come early to chat with a lender, check your credit and discuss next steps.
Learn more: https://parknationalcorp.com/common/mortgage/homebuyer-workshop-fundy.pdf
Affordable Housing Resource Fair
Affordable Housing Resource Fair
Next date: Saturday, 19 September 2026 | 10:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano’s office will host an Affordable Housing Resource Fair on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Reynoldsburg High School - Livingston Campus (6699 E Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068). The free event will connect residents with reliable information and direct support related to housing and social services.
The fair will include resources on affordable, accessible, and high-quality housing and services from local housing organizations, businesses, government agencies, and social service organizations. Financial institutions will also be on site with information on mortgages and other forms of assistance, and community experts will be available to discuss policy, resources, development, and more.
The Affordable Housing Resource Fair is intended for people across a wide range of housing needs, including rentals, senior housing, first-time homebuyers, accessibility needs, and support services that can help residents stay safely housed.
Learn more: https://auditor.franklincountyohio.gov/Events/20260919-Affordable-Housing-Resource-Fair
Defending the CRA: What's At Stake With the CRA Rollback
The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) is one of the most important tools communities have to hold banks accountable for investing, lending and providing services in low- and moderate-income communities. Now, a new proposal from federal regulators would weaken those obligations while reducing transparency and accountability.
The proposal puts an estimated $71 billion to $87 billion a year in community development financing at risk — financing that supports affordable housing, economic development, community services and underserved communities. This webinar will help you understand what the proposed changes could mean for your community and how you can take action before the October 13 public comment deadline.
Don’t wait to take action: Visit ncrc.org/cra to see what’s at risk in your state and use that data to submit a comment to federal regulators.
Lancaster-Fairfield Community Action Agency Annual Luncheon
Featuring keynote address from Amy Riegel, Executive Director of the Coalition on Housing & Homelessness in Ohio.
Thursday, Sept 17 at Noon.
Levacy Center, 1550 Sheriday Drive, Lancaster, Ohio
Zone In Public Hearing 2: New Zoning Districts
Details
Event date: Wednesday, September 16, 2026, 5:00:00 PM EDT – 8:00:00 PM EDT
Location: King Arts Complex - 835 Mt. Vernon Ave
Columbus, OH 43203
Building Homes and Communities for When We Age
Building Homes and Communities for When We Age
Longer lifespans, evolving household structures, and growing care needs are changing what people need from their homes and communities. In this webinar, which builds on Shelterforce’s recent Under the Lens series—Housing in an Aging Society, panelists will discuss how households are adapting to the realities of growing older, and the housing policies and solutions that can help support aging safely, affordably, and connected to one another. This 90-minute webinar will explore: ✔️ What is the scale of the housing need for an aging U.S. population? ✔️ What does it mean to “age in place,” or “age in community,” and what are the differences between the two terms? ✔️ What is “livability” and how can it be promoted in an aging community? ✔️ How does age discrimination intersect with other forms of discrimination such as sexism and racism and what are some promising ways to confront that? ✔️ What are some promising approaches to leverage existing housing infrastructure to enable people to age in their own homes and communities? ✔️ How does an intergenerational community function? What are the benefits and the challenges for both younger and older residents? ✔️ What are the public policy measures that can better support aging in community? What do they cost—and what is the cost of not acting? ✔️ What are some specific steps advocates can take to improve housing options for older Americans? Panelists include: - Delores Bailey, executive director of EMPOWERment Inc., a community development corporation in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. - Rodney Harrell, vice president of family, home, and community for AARP Public Policy Institute. Harrell is a lead for AARP’s housing and livable community efforts. - Tamara Knox, cofounder and CEO of Seattle-based Frolic Community, which is developing intergenerational, cooperatively owned housing. - Stacy Torres, assistant professor of sociology at the University of California, San Francisco.
Learn more: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BGPvd5bJS8CMLlxuq6VVQg#/registration
Realtor Lunch & Learn: Grow Your Sales and Production as a Realtor
Realtor Lunch & Learn: Grow Your Sales and Production as a Realtor
Columbus Board of Realtors: 2700 Airport Drive, Columbus
September 16 | 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
In today's highly competitive real estate market, standing out and growing your business requires the right strategy, mindset and partnerships. Join Joe Micallef, an award-winning banking expert known for achieving exceptional
results, as he shares practical techniques to help Realtors increase sales, boost production and navigate the challenges facing today's market. Attendees will gain valuable insights on overcoming common obstacles, identifying new opportunities for growth and building a sustainable business that thrives in any market condition. Whether you're a seasoned professional or looking to take your business to the next level, you'll walk away with actionable strategies you can put to work right away.
Be sure to check in when you arrive so you're entered in the door prize drawing.* Attendees will earn 1 credit CE hours.**
Economic Opportunity Accelerators September Meeting: The ROAD to Housing Act, A Guide for Local Leaders
Economic Opportunity Accelerators September Meeting: The ROAD to Housing Act, A Guide for Local Leaders
Housing affordability and supply remain top-of-mind challenges for local leaders, and federal policy continues to shape the tools and constraints cities are working within. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is a sweeping bipartisan package aimed at boosting housing supply, unlocking private capital, and reducing regulatory barriers to building – with significant implications for how local governments approach housing strategy moving forward. Our September Accelerators session will help local leaders understand what's in the bill, what matters most for their communities, and what to watch for as it moves forward. We'll hear from the National Housing Crisis Task Force (NHCTF) team on the substance of the bill and its implications, and hear directly from practitioners on what this means for their own housing priorities.
Learn more: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Hr3MPPL0TyObuiEGxSPMvA#/registration
"Combating Misinformation: Equipping Housing Advocates as Trusted Messengers in 2026"
Join NLIHC's Our Homes, Our Votes nonpartisan campaign on Monday, September 14, at 3:00 pm ET for a timely discussion on how housing advocates can help renters navigate misinformation and disinformation during the 2026 election cycle.
Realtor Lunch & Learning: Housing Data You Should Know
This month’s topic: Housing data you should know
We hope you’ll carve out time to join Park home lenders and local real estate professionals for a lunch and learn event.
This month’s presentation will cover essential housing data shared by Michael Wilkos from the United Way of Central
Ohio. Mr. Wilkos will provide valuable insights into the latest housing data, including affordable housing statistics, current
market conditions and emerging national and local housing trends. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the
factors shaping today’s housing market and leave with data-driven knowledge they can use to better serve clients and
strengthen their business.
Be sure to check-in when you arrive so you’re entered in the door prize drawing.* Attendees will earn 1.5 CE hours.**
Thursday, September 10
12:00 ‒ 2:00 p.m.
Doors open and lunch is served at 12:00 p.m., program begins at 12:30 p.m.
Columbus Board of Realtors
2700 Airport Drive, Columbus
Realtor Lunch & Learn: Housing data you should know
Realtor Lunch & Learn: Housing data you should know
Columbus Board of Realtors: 2700 Airport Drive, Columbus
September 10 | 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.
We hope you'll carve out time to join Park home lenders and local real estate professionals for a lunch and learn event. This month's presentation will cover essential housing data shared by Michael Wilkos from the United Way of Central Ohio. Mr. Wilkos will provide valuable insights into the latest housing data, including affordable housing statistics, current market conditions and emerging national and local housing trends.
Be sure to check-in when you arrive so you're entered in the door prize drawing.* Attendees will earn 1.5 CE hours.**
Virtual 1/2-Day Eviction Prevention Workshop for Professionals
About the Course
Learn the skills needed to assist tenants and landlords in preventing evictions and their harmful effects on a community.
What You Will Learn
How best to help tenants and landlords reduce their risk of involvement in an eviction.
Top 10 tenant mistakes that often lead to eviction and how to prevent them.
Common eviction-related vocabulary used by the Court.
Community resources available to help tenants during a housing crisis.
Ways to help tenants with past evictions or poor credit access decent housing.
Transit Columbus - September Meeting
September Meeting, Tuesday 9/8
Hi y’all, quick reminder that our July meeting is next week on Tuesday, September 8th at 7pm at the Main Library on Grant. We will be in our usual meeting room 1A.
This month, we’re following the money at COTA. Guest speaker Garrett Patterson will give us a rundown of COTA’s finances and dig into a big question: could Columbus afford to make COTA free? We’ll look at where COTA’s money comes from, where it goes, and what that means for the future of our transit system.
We’ll also have Transit Columbus member Steve Totzke present on Green Social Housing and how we as an organization can fight for affordable housing that is also good for the climate.
Lastly, we’ll have some updates on the Our City Our Say campaign and what to expect going forward.
Everyone is welcome, no prior knowledge or experience is needed! Whether this is your first meeting or your fifteenth, we're looking forward to seeing you!
Learn more: https://transitcolumbus.org/
Coffee & Whatever
Coffee & Whatever
First Fridays at Noon
Have a wild idea you want to soundboard? Looking to vent (fair, TBH)? Seeking a new nerdy housing friend? Want to give & get book recommendations? Just enjoy espresso and good company? Join AHACO’s Coffee & Whatever for unstructured fun.
We’ll meet on the first Friday of each month at noon at a local coffee shop.
September 4th is at Maudine’s (inside the Junto) at 77 Belle St, Columbus, OH 43215.
No gilded invites, no RSVPs, just swing by and grab a coffee.
Conversations are always free, but drinks are on your own dime.
Curbing the Insurance Spiral 3-Part Series: Session 3
Rising insurance premiums and shrinking or unavailable coverage are increasingly threatening the financial stability of affordable housing owners and operators nationwide. For multifamily providers, insurance costs now outpace revenue growth, forcing difficult tradeoffs that accelerate the risk of losing quality affordable homes across the country. This 3-part webinar series will examine the crisis and highlight practical, near-term and long-term solutions at the organizational, portfolio, and policy levels.
Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic
Rent Escrow Brief Advice Clinic
Attorneys will be available to give advice on rent escrow and will answer questions like: Is the case ready to file? What are the next steps after filing?
Location: Franklin County Municipal Court, 3rd floor, outside of the rent escrow clerk window. All times are 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Dates:
July 1
August 3
September 1
October 1
November 2
December 1
Who Owns the Future? A Showcase of Ideas for a More Locally Owned Economy
Who Owns the Future? A Showcase of Ideas for a More Locally Owned Economy
Body
Wealth and ownership have become increasingly concentrated across sectors, industries, income brackets, and places. This concentration manifests in homeownership, small business, agriculture, and more.
What would it take to create an economy where more people can own assets, build wealth, and share in the value they help create—where capital remains rooted in place, and communities have greater influence over their economic future?
Join practitioners, policymakers, funders, and researchers for an idea showcase on building a more locally owned economy. Through a series of short talks, speakers will explore different pathways to expanding ownership and strengthening community wealth across homeownership, small business, employee ownership, cooperatives, community ownership, and more. Highlighting both proven and emerging approaches, speakers will examine how communities can build assets, retain capital locally, and give residents a greater stake in their economic future.
Franklin County 2026 CDBG Applicant Workshop
Franklin County is excited to announce our application for 2026 CDBG Funding is open! This year, applications will be accepted online-only, through the Euna Grants platform. All applications are due by 5p on September 30, 2026.
There will be a STRONGLY RECOMMENDED application workshop to provide information to prospective applicants, including important details about the new online platform. This technical assistance session will be held virtually on August 25, 2026 from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. Interested parties can register for the workshop and request the virtual meeting link by emailing communitydevelopment@franklincountyohio.gov.
A recording of this session will also be posted to the EDP website.
Please visit their website to apply and view Euna user guides!
Assisted Outcome Treatment
The Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (ODBH) is contracting with COHHIO to organize community meetings across Ohio to connect Assisted Outcome Treatment (AOT) staff and programs with local mental health, housing and homeless service providers. Please select the meeting that lists your county in the registration form below. Don't see your county listed? Register for the a nearby location.
August 20, 1:30- 3:30pm. Columbus Metropolitan library – Dublin Branch – Rooms 1 & 2. 75 N High St, Dublin, OH 43017 (Franklin, Union, Marion)
Public Hearing - Franklin County
Franklin County Economic Development and Planning Department will conduct a public hearing on the Substantial Amendments to the 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 Annual Action Plans to solicit comments on the draft plans and proposed activities on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 3:00 pm in the Commissioners’ Hearing Room, Michael J. Dorrian Building, 1st Floor, 369 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215.
Substantial Amendments to the
2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 AAPs
Oral and written comments on the Substantial Amendments will be accepted until September 16, 2026.
Persons and groups desiring to comment on these plans and proposed activities may do so by email at communitydevelopment@franklincountyohio.gov
Accommodations for disabilities, non-English speaking residents and reasonable accommodations will be honored upon request.
Learn more: https://www.franklincountyohio.gov/Agency-Directory/Economic-Development-Planning/Plans
Columbus State of The Market *Not Free*
Back with the Buckeyes: Columbus' Industrial, Multifamily & Mixed-Use Market Outlook
Bisnow’s return to the Buckeye State brings together the leaders shaping the future of Columbus, one of the fastest-growing real estate markets in the Midwest.
Fueled by population growth, corporate relocations and multibillion-dollar investments in advanced manufacturing and technology, Central Ohio is experiencing a wave of development across industrial, multifamily, healthcare and mixed-use sectors.
With major projects like new downtown towers, expanding medical campuses and massive manufacturing facilities transforming the skyline and reshaping the region’s economic trajectory, there are massive implications for demographic change, business investment, and policy overhauls, the impacts of which will be studied for years to come.
At this event, developers, investors, architects, lenders and public officials will unpack all this and more, tackling the trends defining Columbus’ rapid growth and discussing how the region can sustain its momentum for 2026 and beyond.
What We'll Cover
The New Midwest Boomtown
Columbus has emerged as one of the fastest-growing metros in the country. What is fueling this momentum — and how are developers and investors positioning themselves for the region’s next phase of expansion?Industrial & Advanced Manufacturing Expansion
Mega-projects tied to semiconductors, logistics and defense manufacturing are reshaping Central Ohio’s industrial market. How is the supply chain ecosystem developing around these projects and what opportunities are emerging for developers and investors?Downtown Columbus Reinvention
From mixed-use towers and office conversions to hospitality and cultural investments, how is downtown evolving into a more vibrant live-work-play destination?Housing Supply & Population Growth
Columbus continues to attract new residents at a rapid pace. How are multifamily developers and city leaders addressing housing demand, affordability challenges and neighborhood growth?Infrastructure, Zoning & Policy
Major zoning reform, transit investments and public-private partnerships are playing a critical role in shaping development. What policies will determine where and how the city grows next?Capital Markets & Investment Strategy
How are lenders and investors underwriting deals in today’s environment? What asset classes are attracting the most capital and where are the biggest risks and opportunities?
Learn more: https://www.bisnow.com/events/columbus/state-of-market/columbus-state-of-the-market-9802
ROAD to Housing Webinar by GOPC, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase
The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is the largest housing affordability bill the United States has seen in decades.
Come learn about the newly created pilot grant programs intended for states, local governments, and their nonprofit and quasi-governmental partners.
While programs rules will take months to be written, now is the time to start preparing to put forth strong applications. Join us for the 75 minute webinar to learn more (2pm-3:15pm ET)
Learn more: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/n8fh959SQ1OdN-7fNfWuTA#/registration
Strong Towns + Habitat for Humanity Triplex Build!
Registration Details:
All volunteers and partner families on site must be registered in advance in order to participate. Anyone who is not registered may be turned away.
All volunteers must sign a waiver of liability prior to volunteering (waivers must be signed once per calendar year). Please sign an electronic waiver by visiting the following link prior to your shift: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/v/habitatmidohio
Safety information and instruction on site tasks will be provided at the beginning of your shift!
For weather concerns, please contact the Construction Hotline for any cancellations: (614) 422-4828 (hit #, then dial ext 7039). The hotline will be updated by 7:30 am if there are any cancellations.
What to Wear:
Please wear comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting dirty. You must wear sturdy, hard-soled shoes (work boots preferred). Absolutely no sandals or open toed/open heeled shoes allowed.
What to Bring:
Water bottle
Packed lunch (or plans to get lunch nearby on break)
All other tools and equipment will be provided to you, but you can bring your own safety gear (hard hat, safety glasses, work gloves) or hand tools (tape measure, tool belt, pencil, hammer, etc.) if you’d prefer.
Potential Tasks & Parking Info:
Potential tasks will be updated on the volunteer website a week prior to the build date.
Site lead will be Thomas.
Parking is available on the street. Please remember not to leave any valuables in plain view inside your car.
Learn more: https://habitatmidohio.volunteerhub.com/vv2/lp/strongtowns/event/b6d70d2f-751b-43bc-a69d-90dbc38da778