The Douglass Community Land Trust (Douglass CLT) plants the roots of affordability, security, and prosperity for current and future generations. We enable the inclusive and equitable development and preservation of permanently affordable housing, local small business, and other public assets through community ownership of land, today.
Douglass CLT was founded to prevent displacement and create community-held assets in Washington, DC. Rooted in the racial justice movement, our work builds on the legacy of Frederick Douglass and community land trusts nationwide.
At Douglass Community Land Trust, our core values guide everything we do. These principles ensure that affordable housing remains accessible, communities remain empowered, and families build lasting stability.
Residents and small businesses of the District are our greatest strength and have the right to remain and thrive here. We believe in celebrating and preserving the culture and identity of all District residents. As an inherently anti-displacement organization, the Douglass CLT prioritizes benefit to low-income, existing residents, and welcomes development that does the same.
As a matter of simple equity, quality housing should always be accessible to everyone. The Douglass CLT will preserve and increase the number of homes, both rental and home-ownership, that are permanently affordable for current and future generations of District residents.
Building financial assets for individuals and families is just as critical. The Douglass CLT will not only create opportunities for equity-building through homeownership, but also by creating savings opportunities through reduced rent costs and cost-savings via green sustainable practices. Additionally, Douglass CLT will partner with other organizations doing asset building work.
Power and decision-making belong in the hands of the community. The Douglass CLT will steward resident-controlled housing on community-owned land. We will create multiple pathways for engagement and participation.
Housing is a proven determinant of health. Buildings must be free of physical and/ or chemical hazards such as lead and mold. Healthy housing means embracing the environment as an asset and protecting the air we and our children breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. We aim to maximize sustainable building and operating practices benefitting the residents, the community, and the environment.
The Douglass CLT will run a transparent and effective operation that is financially sound, ensuring it will be in place to steward the programs and public resources, manage the assets, and forge intentional partnerships in perpetuity.
Our board reflects that of a traditional community land trust with a tri-partite board.
Control of the CLT’s board is balanced to ensure that the community as a whole considers and determines the priorities of the organization and all interests are heard but no interest is predominant.
Lessee Members, whose primary residence or place of business is a property owned, in whole or in part, or is otherwise being stewarded by the Corporation.
General Members, who “live, work, or have a demonstrated community affiliation in DC” and who share in and affirm the purposes of the corporation.
Public Representatives, who bring particular technical expertise such as development finance, deep knowledge of the CLT structure, housing development and policy, organizational management, and other such professionals.
Our board reflects that of a traditional community land trust with a tri-partite board.
Control of the CLT’s board is balanced to ensure that the community as a whole considers and determines the priorities of the organization and all interests are heard but no interest is predominant.
