Insights and Inspiration from the NC Affordable Housing Conference

Article By: Devan Brush, Creative Director

This year, we had the privilege of attending the NC Affordable Housing Conference in Raleigh, NC, hosted by our client, NC Housing Finance Agency, alongside the North Carolina Housing Coalition and Centrant Community Capital. It was an incredible two-day event of learning, uplifting the advocates who make a difference every day, and connecting in person with partners.

The eighteenth year of this conference brought together more than 1,400 attendees—an all-time record, showcasing both the urgency and the momentum behind affordable housing in North Carolina. From the opening keynote to breakout sessions on rural development, fair housing, and community land trusts, the event highlighted not only the challenges we face but also the creative strategies communities are using to meet them.

Throughout the conference, a deeply moving theme was the acknowledgment of Hurricane Helene’s devastation. Speakers honored attendees who had traveled from Western North Carolina, where the storm left more than 74,000 homes damaged or destroyed, and reminded us of the resilience of communities still in the long process of rebuilding. Organizations like Beloved Asheville and many others were highlighted for their tireless disaster relief efforts, bringing both compassion and resilience to families in crisis. These reminders underscored the urgent connection between affordable housing and disaster recovery.

One message was clear: collaboration is key. Partnerships across nonprofits, government agencies, and private organizations are how real progress happens. As one keynote speaker put it: “We are building for growth. We are building for the next generations.” This sentiment was echoed throughout the event and reminded us that housing work is not just about structures, it’s about people. Families, teachers, service workers, and essential members of our communities all deserve safe, affordable homes where they can thrive.

Beyond the sessions, one of the highlights of the conference was reconnecting with many of our clients in person. From catching up with partners at NC Housing Finance Agency, to hearing about recent recognition for Raleigh Housing Authority, to meaningful conversations with Cary, CAHEC, and many others, we were reminded of the impact marketing and communications can have in amplifying their important missions.

We also had the opportunity to meet new leaders, including those advancing land trust initiatives across North Carolina. Their passion and commitment to expanding access to home ownership were inspiring.

Takeaways for the Future

• Community Land Trusts are gaining momentum across North Carolina and represent an innovative way to expand long-term housing affordability.
• Fair housing is still the law. Education, advocacy, and transparency are critical to ensuring it is upheld.
• Collaboration matters. Whether it’s navigating funding uncertainty, rebuilding after disasters, or designing new programs, partnerships make housing possible.
• Inspiration is everywhere. Seeing the tangible impact of this work over the past two days, so many are turning houses into homes in our communities.
• Challenges remain. From zoning and regulatory barriers to rising construction costs and limited resources, organizations must balance affordability with sustainability while finding creative solutions.
• Focus for the future. The most successful housing initiatives will prioritize collaboration, transparency in the process, and community engagement. Meet residents where they are and support them holistically.
• Words of advice. Industry leaders reminded us that this work requires patience, perseverance, and allies. Progress doesn’t happen overnight, but when we stay committed, support each other, and celebrate small wins, we can create lasting impact.

Bridge the gap. Be a part of the education. This is a critical time. Take care of yourself. Stay engaged. Be innovative.