Mutual Housing California

Mutual Housing California is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing, managing, and supporting sustainable affordable housing in California. The organization was established in 1988 as a partnership involving neighborhood residents, business representatives, housing advocates, and local government. Its primary goal is to improve housing opportunities for low-income families by strengthening community assets and fostering resident leadership.

Mission and Vision

Mutual Housing California's mission is to create sustainable, affordable housing where residents are integral partners in advancing equitable communities. The organization focuses on revitalizing low-income neighborhoods by acquiring and renovating deteriorated properties, leveraging private and public funding to transform them into safe and functional residential communities. Additionally, Mutual Housing fosters community development by constructing new housing on vacant lots, thereby increasing the supply of affordable housing and eliminating associated hazards.

Core Values

The organization is guided by several core values:

• Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Mutual Housing values diversity and strives to reflect and include diverse voices in its policies and practices.
• Accountability and Stewardship: Ensuring transparency in management and resource allocation, the organization is committed to accountability while stewarding its assets responsibly.
• Healthy, Sustainable Environments: Emphasizing sustainability, Mutual Housing prioritizes building communities that respect residents and the environment.
• Resident Voices: Encourages resident participation in decision-making processes to strengthen the organization and its communities.

Achievements and Projects

Mutual Housing California has undertaken several notable projects, including developing the first multifamily housing with solar energy in the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) area in 2002. In 2011, the organization constructed a multifamily development with the highest Build It Green rating in the North Central Valley. Additionally, Mutual Housing developed the nation's first Zero Net Energy rental housing development in 2015 and expanded it with a Positive Net Energy phase in 2019. In 2022, it launched the first LGBTQ-affirming senior housing community in California.

Today, Mutual Housing owns and operates over 1,463 homes, housing more than 3,600 residents across various communities in Sacramento and Yolo counties. The organization continues to innovate and scale its projects to address the vast need for affordable housing in these regions.

Nonprofit Status

Mutual Housing California is classified under the National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE) as a housing, shelter, and housing development organization. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations to Mutual Housing California are tax-deductible.

Leadership and Governance

The organization's leadership includes a Board of Directors composed of community advocates and professionals. Key executives are responsible for guiding the organization's strategic vision and operational success.

Mutual Housing California continues to play a vital role in addressing California's affordable housing challenges while promoting community development and resident empowerment.

[1] https://www.mutualhousing.com/our-story [2] https://www.energizeinnovation.fund/innovation-partner/mutual-housing-california [3] https://www.mutualhousing.com [4] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/943093354 [5] https://sjvcogs.org/housing-production-and-ownership/mutual-housing-associations/