In 1987, a group of 46 organizations from across Illinois formally established our coalition.

Their vision: An Illinois that invests in creating and protecting good, stable, affordable homes.

Their first goal: Creating an Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund to ensure that state resources would be available to build much-needed housing.

They succeeded—and their vision grew.

Recognizing the power of statewide collaboration, these early housing leaders continued working together to advocate for equitable housing policies and critical investments, train nonprofit staff, strengthen our state’s homeless services, spearhead initiatives, and create thriving communities.

They built a coalition that would grow and adapt to changing needs.

today

Housing Action Illinois is a robust network of 160+ member organizations and a powerful voice for positive change.

Since our founding, hundreds of partners and supporters have come together with us to make progress towards an Illinois where everyone has an affordable place to call home.

We’ve secured critical investments and equitable policy changes that have helped millions of Illinoisans, facilitated trainings for thousands of housing professionals, and fostered countless collaborations.

Thank You

We are grateful for everyone who has helped us accomplish so much and to our current members, allies, and supporters, who are critical to helping us achieve even more.

celebrate

with us

Momentum: 35 Years of Housing Action

Our 35th anniversary publication shares memories and reflections from members, Board, staff, and people with lived experience who have been part of our movement to create an Illinois where everyone has a stable place to call home.

We hope you’ll take the time to read the publication and reflect with us:

Our History

Reflect on 35 years of change with us by reading our accomplishments or sharing your own memories of housing in Illinois.

Our Future

Shape the future of housing in Illinois:
Join us in our current work.

Sustaining Our Work

Join us as a 35th anniversary sponsor for a full year of celebratory activities, including our in-person conference in October and an anniversary publication featuring housing stories from over the years.

“The strength of a nation lies in the home of its people.“ - Abraham Lincoln