Tenant Education Network

The Tenant Education Network (TEN) is a nonprofit organization designated as a 501(c)(3) focused on empowering tenants, especially those in Project Based Section 8 (PBS8) housing, primarily low-income women of color[1][3].

Background

Founded in September 2020, TEN aims to transform housing and communities by combining years of HUD organizing experience with innovative technology and the leadership of motivated tenant leaders[3]. The organization addresses critical issues in PBS8 housing, where over 55% of units house BIPOC families and are predominantly led by women, with more than 90% classified as very low-income households[4]. Despite HUD oversight, these homes often suffer from substandard conditions such as mold, pests, and other health hazards, highlighting systemic failures in housing inspections and management[4].

Mission

TEN’s mission is to empower PBS8 tenants by demystifying the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations, organizing communities, and holding power brokers accountable[1][4]. Through a model that prioritizes supermajority tenant participation, TEN helps tenants negotiate agreements akin to collective bargaining contracts, ensuring material improvements in living conditions, on-site services, and continuous funding for tenant unions[2][3].

Organizational Approach

• Empowerment through Education: TEN educates tenants about their rights and the HUD system, enabling them to organize effectively and communicate their needs to landlords and HUD officials[4].
• Innovative Technology: TEN utilizes web applications to automate the process of documenting and reporting housing issues, making it easier for tenants to advocate for themselves and access HUD enforcement[4].
• Community Building: By fostering strong tenant associations, TEN creates lasting changes in PBS8 housing, from physical renovations to sustainable community services[4].

Financial Overview

TEN generates revenue primarily through contributions, without income from other sources like program services or investments[5]. Its financial assets have been increasing over recent years, reflecting growing support for its mission[5].

Impact

TEN has made significant strides in transforming housing conditions by securing substantial material changes, replacing management companies, and empowering tenants to bargain effectively for long-term improvements[3][4]. The organization's model is designed to be replicable, offering a framework for communities nationwide to build tenant power and advocate for safer, more equitable living conditions[4].

[1] https://www.sparkplugfoundation.org/the-tenant-education-network/ [2] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/3773a8ddf5814497bc6ba2b4260557f9-tenant-education-network-chicago [3] https://tenanteducationnetwork.org [4] https://tenanteducationnetwork.org/about-us/ [5] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/844869932