Written by Nicky Smith
December 21, 2024
As a candidate for Greensboro City Council in District 4, I’m proud to spotlight the incredible work being done by Tiny House Community Development (THCD). This organization is a beacon of hope, transforming lives through innovative housing solutions and workforce development programs. The City of Greensboro needs to rally behind this impactful initiative to ensure it continues to grow and thrive.
Mission Statement: Tiny House Community Development’s mission is to be a coalition of diverse individuals and local organizations who aim to reduce homelessness by engaging in public and private partnerships to create tiny home communities. Working alongside people experiencing homelessness, our goal is to encourage positive community engagement and foster an educational experience in a welcoming environment.
Vision Statement: To be a self-sustaining, nonprofit builder-developer of tiny houses that provides supportive housing, education, training, and social services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and impoverishment to help them become contributing citizens to the community.
THCD goes beyond just building houses—they build futures. By creating tiny house communities, THCD provides individuals experiencing homelessness not only a roof over their heads but also the tools they need to succeed. Their mission is clear: to alleviate homelessness while empowering individuals with valuable skills and opportunities.
Through their education program, THCD offers individuals, including veterans and those transitioning from halfway houses or incarceration, a chance to learn construction trades. Participants undergo an 8-10 week course to earn the National Center for Construction Education and Research Core Basic Construction Skills certification, equipping them to secure employment with local contractors at wages ranging from $15 to $18 an hour. This program is a lifeline, lifting people out of poverty and paving the way for self-sufficiency.
One of THCD’s most notable achievements is the JM Green Tiny House Community in High Point. This ten-house community on Hay Street was started in 2021 and completed in 2023, thanks to a generous land donation from Jack Green. Now, eight formerly homeless individuals and two veterans call this supportive housing location home. They are working and saving to reestablish themselves in society before transitioning to permanent housing.
The community features garden boxes and walkways to encourage involvement and foster a sense of connection among residents. Additionally, a bus stop conveniently located on the corner provides easy transportation, making it a model of accessibility and sustainability.
THCD is currently working on the Smith Street Veteran-Only Community in High Point. This ambitious project will feature a community office, two three-bedroom assisted living houses, two two-bedroom family houses, and four one-bedroom tiny houses designed exclusively for veterans. The community will also include a veteran memorial, walkways, and gardens, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for its residents.
The goal is to complete this community by November 11th, 2024, a fitting tribute to veterans who have served our country. Once finished, this community will provide not just housing but a place for veterans to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society with dignity and support.
Homelessness is a complex challenge, but Greensboro can draw inspiration from Finland’s Housing First approach, which has drastically reduced homelessness over the past 16 years. By prioritizing permanent housing as the foundation for stability, Finland has transformed lives and reduced public spending. Greensboro has an opportunity to replicate this success through initiatives like the Tiny House Project.
Finland’s Housing First in Action:
Provides immediate, permanent housing without preconditions.
Offers tailored support services to address mental health, addiction, and employment.
Saves public funds by reducing reliance on emergency services, shelters, and law enforcement.
Adapting Housing First in Greensboro:
Reduce Emergency Costs: Permanent housing decreases expensive emergency room visits and law enforcement interventions. By investing in tiny house communities, Greensboro can save money while addressing root causes.
Integrate Communities: Adopting scattered-site housing reduces stigma and fosters community integration. Partnering with local property owners and developers can make this vision a reality.
Collaborate Locally: Finland’s success depended on partnerships. Greensboro can work with nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies to provide counseling, job training, and healthcare.
Secure Sustainable Funding: Federal and state grants, private donations, and public investment can fund housing-first projects. Over time, savings from reduced emergency services can offset initial costs.
Central to THCD’s efforts is the Hope Center, a resource hub that supports individuals experiencing homelessness. Open six days a week, the Hope Center provides breakfast and essential services, connecting individuals with social workers to address their unique needs. This holistic approach ensures that those who walk through its doors receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.
THCD’s impact extends to workforce development through practical training programs. Participants gain hands-on experience by building garden boxes and potting tables, which are sold to support the nonprofit. This initiative not only provides valuable skills but also fosters a sense of purpose and accomplishment among participants.
THCD’s success is amplified by its strong network of partners, including local schools, businesses, and nonprofits. Collaborations with organizations like Replacements Unlimited, Volvo Financial Services, Home Depot Foundation, and Guilford Technical Community College ensure that THCD has the resources and support needed to expand its reach.
The work of Tiny House Community Development is a shining example of innovation, compassion, and resilience. As a city, Greensboro must recognize the value of this initiative and invest in its continued growth. Here’s how we can help:
Increased Funding: Allocate city resources to support the expansion of tiny house communities and workforce training programs.
Policy Support: Streamline zoning and building regulations to facilitate the construction of tiny houses.
Community Engagement: Partner with local businesses and organizations to amplify THCD’s mission.
Adopt Housing First: Implement a Finland-inspired model to reduce homelessness, save money, and make Greensboro a national leader in housing solutions.
With over 45 years of business experience, I understand the importance of innovative solutions and strategic partnerships in driving meaningful change. If elected to Greensboro City Council, I will champion initiatives like THCD and advocate for a Housing First approach, ensuring they receive the support needed to thrive. Together, we can make Greensboro a city where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Let’s build a future where tiny houses create big opportunities. Join me in supporting Tiny House Community Development and making a difference in the lives of our neighbors.
“Housing is more than just a roof over someone’s head—it’s the foundation for a stable and thriving life. I am committed to championing innovative housing solutions like Tiny House Community Development to ensure every Greensboro resident has the opportunity to succeed. Together, we can create a brighter future for our city.”
Let’s build the future our city deserves. Greensboro is ready for a new era—let’s get to work.
Donate today, and let’s choose Greensboro’s future. Together, we can ensure that our city thrives for generations to come. Your voice matters—your vote matters—your support matters. Let’s make it count.
– Nicky Smith
Candidate for Greensboro City Council, District 4
