Now
Phase 1
Organize the System
2026
Phase 2
Secure the Stack
2027–28
Phase 3
Scale Operations
2030
Phase 4
Reach Functional Zero
Now
Phase 1 · Immediate
Organize the System
The foundation phase. Building the organizational infrastructure, community alignment, and strategic documentation needed to pursue federal designation and major funding.
Establish Homeward Bound NORMAN governance — board, bylaws, 501(c)(3) pathway
Convene coalition partners across faith, civic, and service rings
Initiate HMIS enrollment and Coordinated Entry planning with ACOG
Launch philanthropic and community fundraising
Publish comprehensive plan and secure community endorsements
Identify and control Reed Avenue site
Engage Norman City Council and Cleveland County commissioners
2026
Phase 2 · Secure the Stack
Federal Designation & Capital
Achieving the key designations and funding commitments that unlock the full system. This phase converts the plan into a funded, operational program.
Submit HUD Continuum of Care application — achieve CoC designation
File FEMA BRIC application for Reed Avenue safe room component
Submit OHFA LIHTC application for Reed Avenue affordable units
Secure City of Norman formal endorsement and match commitment
Close initial philanthropic funding round ($3M–$5M target)
Hire Executive Director and initial staff
Launch Coordinated Entry system citywide
2027
Phase 3 · Scale Operations
Build, Operate, Serve
With funding secured and systems operational, this phase focuses on delivery — housing people, constructing Reed Avenue, and scaling services to match demand.
Break ground on Reed Avenue Resilience Center
Rapid Rehousing program operating at full capacity
Prevention program serving 200+ households annually
HMIS tracking all clients across all Norman providers
Annual public progress report — homelessness data made public
Expand HUD CoC renewal grants and operating subsidies
2030
Phase 4 · Functional Zero
Norman Reaches Functional Zero
Homelessness in Norman and Cleveland County is rare, brief, and non-recurring. Any new instance is resolved quickly. The system is self-sustaining and replicable.
Reed Avenue Resilience Center fully operational — 60+ permanent supportive units
Functional zero achieved — homelessness no longer a chronic condition in Norman
System serves as a model for mid-sized Oklahoma communities
Annual HUD reporting confirms sustained outcomes
Norman recognized nationally as a Housing First success story
The clock is running.
We need your help to hit Phase 1 milestones now.
Every month matters. The earlier we organize, the more federal funding windows we can access.