"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.
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
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.**
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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/
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
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
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/
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/
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/
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!
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
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
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
The Last House on the Block: Lessons from Brightmoor, Detroit on Disinvestment, Reinvestment and Community Power
What does meaningful reinvestment look like in communities experiencing long-term depopulation and disinvestment? Using Detroit's Brightmoor neighborhood as a case study, this conversation explores what happens when gentrification collides with deep depopulation, and what that reveals about investment, neighborhood change and who gets to shape a community's future.
Drawing on the book The Last House on the Block: Black Homeowners, White Homesteaders, and Failed Gentrification in Detroit (University of Chicago Press, 2025), the discussion will examine why traditional narratives about neighborhood revitalization often fall short in places where population loss, rather than growth, has defined the local economy. From there, the conversation will broaden to consider Brightmoor's longer history, the enduring leadership and resilience of residents, and the policy and financial tools that can help communities direct investment, strengthen local ownership and build toward long-term flourishing.
Bringing together research, lived experience and policy expertise, this webinar will explore lessons for practitioners working in depopulated and disinvested communities across the country.
Speakers: Sharon Cornelissen, Director of Housing, Consumer Federation of America and author of The Last House on the Block: Black Homeowners, White Homesteaders, and Failed Gentrification in Detroit Phyllis Edwards, Executive Director, Bridging Communities Pastor Larry Simmons, Executive Director, Brightmoor Alliance Josh Silver, Senior Fellow at NCRC and author of Ending Redlining through a Community-Centered Reform of the Community Reinvestment Act
Union Savings Bank Homebuyers Lunch & Learn Workshop (FREE)
Thinking about buying a home? Come hang out with us in person for a fun and easy Lunch & Learn session where we’ll break down the homebuying process. Bring your questions, enjoy some good eats, and get insider tips to make your journey smoother. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just need a refresher, this workshop is made for you. Don’t miss out on this awesome chance to learn and connect!
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 13, 10am-12pm. Licking County Downtown Newark Branch – Room A. 101 W Main St, Newark, OH 43055 (Richland, Knox, Licking, Fairfield, Muskingum)
Coffee with a Cause: the Pulse of Nonprofits
Featuring speakers from the Affordable Housing Trust for Columbus & Franklin County, Children’s Hunger Alliance, Future Ready Five, Philanthropy Ohio, and The Spice Age Group.
Learn more on linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cypclub/
Looking Ahead After the Passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act
Join Enterprise's policy team for an overview of the recently enacted 21st Century ROAD to Housing bill and learn about why it matters, what it does, the most important provisions and what will come next for lawmakers, housers, residents, and all levels of government.
Unlocking Housing Goals for Local Governments with the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act
The National League of Cities (NLC) is hosting a webinar titled “Unlocking Housing Goals for Local Governments with the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act” which will explore housing resources that may be of interest to local and regional professionals in economic development, housing, planning, community development, city management, workforce, and education.
“The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is the most comprehensive federal housing package in more than three decades that offers incentives and supports for both the public and private sector to reduce housing costs and expand housing supply. For local governments in particular, the legislation improves existing programs like CDBG and HOME and authorizes several new competitive grant programs for infrastructure necessary for housing, adoption of pre-approved architectural designs, preservation of existing affordable housing, and more.
Join experts at the National League of Cities to learn about this bill, the changes and new programs in this bill, when these programs will become available, and steps local governments can take now in anticipation of new programs and technical assistance authorized under the bill.”
Webinar Date: August 11, 2026
Webinar Time: 1:30pm Central Time
Registration: link
NLIHC's Our Homes, Our Votes Monthly Webinar Series
NLIHC's Our Homes, Our Votes is a nonpartisan campaign working to register, educate, and mobilize low-income renters and affordable housing advocates to vote. Renters especially low-income renters are underrepresented at the ballot box, and closing this gap is critical to building the political will needed for lasting housing solutions.
The OHOV Monthly Webinar Series brings together housing providers, housing advocates, organizations, and tenant leaders during midterm and major election years to share proven voter engagement strategies, highlight what’s working in communities, and provide practical tools to mobilize renters. Sessions feature real-world examples, lessons from the field, and actionable guidance to help organizations strengthen their nonpartisan voter engagement efforts and ensure renters’ voices are heard.
Learn more: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eOVXRkqRRn6QmaIlp3vBYg
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.
August 7th is at Global Gallery at 3535 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214.
No gilded invites, no RSVPs, just swing by and grab a coffee.
Conversations are always free, but drinks are on your own dime.
Skyrocketing insurance costs hitting renters: How cities and affordable housing providers are fighting back
The home insurance availability and affordability crisis is threatening the housing security of renters across the United States. As worsening climate change increases property damage and recovery costs rise, the insurance industry has responded by forcing policyholders to shoulder these costs so they can pad their profits. Landlords of affordable and rent-stabilized housing legally cannot pass the increased costs on to their tenants who cannot afford more rent hikes, which puts huge strains on building finances. Join us for a conversation with housing experts from Los Angeles, Houston, and New York City as we discuss what affordable housing providers and cities can do to fight back against rising costs and fight for affordable housing security for all.
Learn more: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/5817841261939/WN_2_b9hWrkSRmiRnhJLImzLg#/registration
Conversation on the Community Shelter Board
Franklin County Board of Commissioners Administrative Session: Conversation on the Community Shelter Board (Thursday, August 6, 2026, 9 a.m.)
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will convene for an administrative session on Thursday, August 6, to discuss the Community Shelter Board. The session will begin at 9 a.m. on the 26th Floor of 373 S. High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215. The public and the media are welcome to attend.
Unlocking ADU Financing: Strategies for Homeowners, Developers, and Policymakers
Financing remains one of the biggest barriers to building accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Join Casita Coalition for conversation exploring creative approaches to financing ADUs and expanding access to capital for homeowners and housing providers. This webinar will bring together leaders from the lending, development, and public sectors to discuss how financing tools can help accelerate ADU production.
Whether you're a homeowner exploring an ADU, a housing advocate, a policymaker, or a developer, this webinar will provide valuable insights into the financing solutions scaling ADUs and helping bring more homes to communities across the country.
Learn more: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_mhI3TsctQuK2W23kTiXQpQ#/registration
Harm Reduction
COHHIO Training Announcement: Harm Reduction
Date: August 5, 2026
Time: 10:00am - 11:00am
Format: Virtual
Trainer: Elizabeth Grieser, COHHIO Director of Training & TA
Overview
This training will cover the basics of Harm Reduction specific to people who use drugs, including principles, strategies, and challenges.
Training Areas Include:
Basics of Harm Reduction specific to People Who Use Drugs
Harm Reduction principles
Harm Reduction strategies
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 for individuals licensed under the Ohio Social Worker, Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist Board will be available.
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/fxIbx0E0RnOY-PjuCawh4g#/registration
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
Linden Community Dinner
Join St. Stephen's Community House and Park National Bank for a FREE night of fun! Enjoy music, bounce houses, a photo booth, snow cone machine, and dinner- all at no cost to you or your family. All are welcome! Dinner tickets are available for the first 300 individuals. First come, first served.
Supportive Housing Works: Messaging for Supportive Housing Week
Effective messaging can make the difference between informing an audience and inspiring action during your congressional site visits and beyond.
Join CSH for this interactive webinar to learn how to communicate about supportive housing in ways that resonate with policymakers, community leaders, and other key stakeholders. As public narratives and policy conversations continue to evolve, participants will explore strategies for crafting clear, compelling messages that build understanding and support for supportive housing.
In this session, you will learn how to: • Develop a more strategic approach to communications and advocacy • Frame supportive housing in ways that connect with priority audiences • Use practical tools and techniques to strengthen your messaging for Supportive Housing Week and beyond Register today and get ready to help show that Supportive Housing Works.
Trump's Anti-Homeless Executive Order, One Year Later
On July 24, 2025, Trump signed a deeply harmful Executive Order (EO) outlining his administration’s shift away from real solutions to homelessness, like housing and support, and towards taking away rights from people experiencing homelessness and defunding housing programs.
But the EO was only the beginning. Over the last year, the Trump administration has used it as a blueprint for sweeping policy changes that are harming our communities and making homelessness worse.
On Thursday, July 30 from 3:30-5 PM ET, join us for a national conversation on the consequences of the Executive Order and how we can fight back. During the webinar, you’ll:
- Learn how Trump’s EO has shaped local, state, and federal policy one year later
- Hear from homelessness, drug policy, and mental health advocates from across the country
- Take action to stop Trump’s attacks on homeless people and real solutions to homelessness
Learn more: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TBFzsoopRNWuur1R9IkhWg#/registration