DE-NAHRO 2026 Annual Conference & Meeting

Join the Delaware Chapter of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (DE-NAHRO) for a one-day conference focused on housing solutions and services for Delaware’s most vulnerable residents.

The conference will bring together housing authorities, nonprofit partners, policymakers, and service providers to discuss new initiatives, partnerships, and programs supporting housing stability across Delaware.

Info: Coffee and a light breakfast will be served. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to view the short documentary The Pathway Home, produced by New Castle County and Short Order Productions. The film highlights the transformation of a hotel into a shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness and won a Mid-Atlantic Emmy Award in the “Societal Concerns – Long Form Content” category.

Info: Opening remarks and welcome by Carrie Casey, DE-NAHRO President and General Manager of New Castle County’s Department of Community Services, followed by remarks from Marcus Henry, New Castle County Executive, and a welcome video from Congresswoman Sarah McBride.

Info: Join us for an exclusive tour of Wilmington Housing Authority (WHA) sites and see firsthand how innovative strategies are expanding affordable housing in Wilmington. This guided experience highlights a range of developments—from senior housing and mixed-income communities to workforce training centers and neighborhood revitalization efforts—offering a comprehensive look at WHA’s impact.

Stops include: Foulk Road (101-bed senior housing tour), McMullen Square (mixed-income), Thatcher Street (workforce training), Imani Village (Choice Neighborhoods with REACH Riverside), Kingswood Community Center, Bennett Street (homeownership units), Jazz Court (44 affordable units), Elwyn Apartments (4th-floor tour), and a WHA solar farm.

A unique opportunity to see how housing, services, and community investment come together in action.

Info: Experience an inside look at the Hope Center through a guided tour led by staff, followed by a panel discussion exploring the vision and impact behind this innovative model for addressing homelessness. Panelists will share how the Hope Center was established, the partnerships and funding that sustain it, and strategies for long-term success. The discussion will also focus on how this model can be adapted and replicated in other communities, offering valuable insights for those seeking effective, scalable solutions to support vulnerable populations.

Info: Don’t miss this dynamic lunchtime session featuring a special welcome from Delaware Governor Matt Meyer, setting the stage for an engaging and impactful program. The DE-NAHRO Annual Meeting will highlight key initiatives and milestones, followed by an inspiring keynote speaker (to be announced). The session will culminate with the presentation of DE-NAHRO’s prestigious awards—the Ambassador Award and the Robert S. Moyer Award—recognizing outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing housing and community development. This is a must-attend session celebrating innovation, impact, and the people making a difference.

Info: Hear from Matt Heckles, Director of the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA), as he shares early wins from the Delaware Interagency Collaborative to End Homelessness. This fast-moving update will highlight progress, partnerships, and real results in tackling one of the state’s most urgent challenges—offering valuable insight into what’s working and what’s next.

Info: Explore how the Hope Center is redefining what a modern homeless shelter can be—and how its model can be replicated across Delaware. This forward-looking session highlights the power of cross-sector partnerships, including ChristianaCare, permanent supportive housing providers, and targeted financial assistance to help individuals transition into stable housing. Learn how coordinated services, innovative funding strategies, and a focus on long-term outcomes are creating a scalable blueprint for success. With a vision of establishing a model shelter in each county, this session offers actionable insights for building a more effective, compassionate, and sustainable response to homelessness.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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