Homeless Action Network of Detroit (HAND) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Homeless Action Network of Detroit (HAND) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to leading efforts to end homelessness in Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park, Michigan. Established in 1996, HAND serves as the lead agency for the Continuum of Care (CoC) in these cities, coordinating resources and strategies to address homelessness.

Mission and Vision

HAND's mission is to provide leadership to end homelessness. The organization envisions a community where homelessness is rare, brief, and non-recurring, achieved through collaboration, competence, commitment, performance, integrity, and advocacy.

Primary Area of Focus

HAND focuses on coordinating and enhancing services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. This includes managing funding applications, overseeing the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), and collaborating with various stakeholders to implement effective solutions.

Industry Significance

As the lead agency for the CoC, HAND plays a pivotal role in securing and distributing federal and state resources to combat homelessness. The organization manages annual funding applications, resulting in over $25 million in homelessness programming for the community each year.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Leadership in Homelessness Prevention: HAND aims to lead efforts in preventing and ending homelessness through strategic planning and resource coordination.

• Collaboration and Partnership: The organization emphasizes building partnerships with service providers, community development organizations, and government entities to create a unified response to homelessness.

• Data Management and Analysis: HAND oversees the HMIS, ensuring accurate data collection and analysis to inform decision-making and improve service delivery.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Coordinated Entry System (CAM): HAND manages the Coordinated Assessment Model (CAM), a system that connects individuals experiencing homelessness to appropriate services and housing resources.

• Funding and Resource Management: The organization coordinates funding applications and manages resources to support homelessness programs, including those funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA).

Key Technologies Utilized

• Homeless Management Information System (HMIS): HAND utilizes HMIS to collect, manage, and analyze data on homelessness, facilitating informed decision-making and program evaluation.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

HAND primarily targets individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park. The organization also addresses systemic issues contributing to homelessness, such as affordable housing shortages and access to supportive services.

Financials and Funding

Total Funds Raised

HAND manages over $25 million annually in homelessness programming funds, sourced from federal and state grants.

Recent Funding Rounds

• Bezos Foundation Family Homelessness Grant: In November 2021, HAND was awarded $1.25 million from the Bezos Foundation to combat housing insecurity in Detroit.

• HUD CoC Competition: In February 2025, the Detroit CoC, led by HAND, was awarded $40 million in HUD's annual CoC Program Competition to support programs aimed at preventing and ending homelessness.

Notable Investors

HAND's funding sources include federal agencies like HUD, state agencies such as MSHDA, and private foundations like the Bezos Foundation.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds are utilized to support various programs, including emergency shelter services, permanent supportive housing, rapid re-housing, and supportive services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

HAND's pipeline includes projects focused on expanding permanent supportive housing, enhancing rapid re-housing programs, and improving emergency shelter facilities.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

As a nonprofit organization, HAND does not engage in clinical trials or product development. Instead, the organization focuses on program development and implementation to address homelessness.

Target Conditions

HAND's initiatives target homelessness and housing insecurity, aiming to provide stable housing solutions and supportive services to vulnerable populations.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

HAND's strategic plan outlines a five-year roadmap for improving the homelessness response system, with specific milestones for program expansion, resource allocation, and policy advocacy.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

HAND utilizes the HMIS to collect and analyze data on homelessness, facilitating informed decision-making and program evaluation.

Significant Scientific Methods

HAND employs data-driven approaches, including statistical analysis and performance metrics, to assess program effectiveness and inform strategic planning.

AI-Driven Capabilities

While specific AI-driven capabilities are not detailed, HAND's data management practices may incorporate advanced analytics to enhance service delivery.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Tasha Gray – Executive Director

Tasha joined HAND in June 2009 and has served as Executive Director since then. She provides oversight and leadership to all of HAND’s programs and services and advocates for the area's homeless population. Tasha holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Michigan and a Master’s Degree in Urban Planning from the University of Southern California.

• Anita Posey – Administrative Assistant

Anita is a native Detroiter with a passion for helping others. She has experience in public service and is dedicated to advocating for marginalized communities. Anita holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration and is pursuing a Master's degree in Public Health.

• Amanda Sternberg – Performance Management Analyst

Amanda has been with HAND since 2007 and focuses on developing and implementing performance management processes, aligning CoC funding with program performance, and monitoring funded programs. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Wayne State University.

• Chelsea Johnson – Program Coordinator

Chelsea joined HAND as a Performance Management Analyst intern and now serves as a Program Coordinator, providing support to the CoC program staff and assisting with policy development. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Wayne State University.

• Deloris Cortez – Interim Systems Service Coordinator

Deloris has over 25 years of experience advocating for Michigan communities and has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 30 years. She joined HAND in 2020 and is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Community Development with a concentration in Public Administration.

• Katherine Izzo – Client Support Liaison

Katherine joined HAND in 2022 as a COVID-19 Vaccination Data Coordinator and is pursuing a Master's in Public Health through Michigan State University.

• Elijah Olsen – Capacity Building Coordinator

Elijah joined HAND in 2025 and works to improve access to information and resources across the Detroit CoC by developing community partnerships and providing technical support. He holds a Master of Public Health from Oakland University.

• Meredith Baughman – Youth Homelessness Coordinator

Meredith joined HAND in March 2023 and works closely with the CoC team to prioritize efforts related to addressing youth homelessness. She has experience in addressing sexual violence and exploitation and holds a background in mentoring and academic support.

Leadership Changes

No recent significant changes or appointments within HAND's leadership have been reported.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for homelessness services in Detroit is characterized by a collaborative approach, with multiple organizations working together to address the complex issue of homelessness. The sector is influenced by federal and state funding, policy changes, and community engagement.

Competitor Analysis

• Cass Community Social Services (CCSS): A nonprofit organization serving Southeastern Michigan, CCSS focuses on community building and fighting poverty, offering various services to those in need.

• Ruth Ellis Center: A social services agency in the Detroit area that serves the needs of runaway, homeless, and LGBTQ+ youth, providing supportive services and safe shelter.