Champions of Affordable Housing
Founded in 1968, EAH Housing is one of the largest and most respected nonprofit affordable housing platforms and partners in the western United States. Through ESG-aligned real estate development, property management, resident services, and advocacy, EAH powers systemic change at scale.
Mission
EAH Housing exists to expand the range of opportunities for all by developing, managing, preserving, and promoting quality affordable housing and thriving communities.
Vision
We envision vibrant neighborhoods where people can thrive for generations. Through well-designed affordable housing, strong stewardship, and supportive services, we enhance quality of life for all.
Core Values
Passion
We bring energy and purpose to our mission, advocating for housing justice and advancing resident well-being to build stronger communities and brighter futures. Because a roof is just the beginning.
Ethics
We act fairly and honestly, demonstrating accountability and follow-through. We steward resources responsibly—upholding compliance, safeguarding funding, and protecting long-term affordability.
Collaboration
We work across sectors, regions, and organizations, aligning early, sharing context, clarifying priorities, and resolving friction to keep efforts connected and focused on advancing shared goals.
Aloha
We show up with care, compassion, empathy, intention, and respect. We honor people and planet—sustainably creating communities of belonging to protect resources for future generations.
Excellence
With discipline and pride in our craft, we build attractive, well-designed affordable housing that lasts. We are consistent and committed to continuous improvement, refining our work to exceed expectations.
Our Story
1968
In the wake of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, a grassroots coalition of citizen volunteers and faith-based organizations in Marin County, California, united to build a future of equal opportunity. Led by Martin Mackey, EAH Housing was founded to expand housing access and stability to all incomes and backgrounds as a form of social justice.
1970s-1980s
Early EAH communities were made possible through donated land and local partnerships. Following its first completed development, which opened in 1971, EAH expanded its reach across California, gradually building expertise in public financing and establishing the scale, relationships, and technical capabilities that define EAH Housing today.
1993
As federal affordability contracts began to expire, EAH launched its Stewardship Program to protect low-income housing stock from a wave of market-rate conversions. By expanding into consulting and management services, EAH moved beyond developing new properties to preserving those at risk, stabilizing communities against displacement and market pressure.
1996
EAH extended its mission of housing access to Hawaiʻi, acquiring and rehabilitating landmark properties. By bringing specialized development and management expertise to the Pacific, EAH preserved long-term affordability for hundreds of local families, solidifying its role as a regional leader in low-income housing solutions.
2006–2011
Starting with its first large-scale solar installation in 2006, EAH became an early leader in advancing sustainability and affordability together. Over the next five years, the organization formalized sustainable practices and standards, launched the Building Sustainable Communities Initiative, and began retrofitting properties with green upgrades.
2012
EAH launched the Rebecca W. Watkin Scholarship Program to support residents pursuing higher education or vocational training. Funded by donations from the Watkin estate, the EAH Board, and individual supporters, the program continues to provide annual awards to help residents advance their education and careers to this day.
2014
EAH expanded sustainability initiatives to include resident and staff engagement, education, and conservation programs—improving health and safety, increasing participation in green practices, and reducing the organization’s environmental footprint. That same year, EAH was recognized by the White House for solar deployment across our communities.
2015
EAH launched two initiatives to strengthen resident well-being and opportunity. StayWell! promotes health, education, and community engagement, while Bridging the Digital Divide provides Wi-Fi, devices, and digital literacy training—expanding access to essential tools for daily life and long-term stability.
2018
EAH celebrated 50 years of advancing social justice through housing access and community stability, marking its growth from a volunteer-led grassroots effort into a multi-state nonprofit serving thousands of residents across California and Hawaiʻi.
Advancing a Brighter Future
As stewards of social justice, our work goes beyond providing affordable housing to running strategic programs that bring stability and opportunity. See how we’re strengthening lives, communities, and futures.
Corporate Initiatives
Guiding Strategy, Stewardship & Growth
With deep expertise across real-estate development, property management, and resident services, EAH Housing leaders align mission and performance to expand housing opportunities and deliver lasting value for our communities and partners.
Our Leadership