We know that fair housing is essential to building more fair and inclusive communities — but have you ever stopped to wonder what really goes into this work? (Hint: we couldn’t do what we do without some pretty amazing people.) Over the next few months, we will be putting the spotlight on the people who are immersed in this work every day, as we introduce you to the “Faces of Fair Housing”. In our first spotlight, we’re talking with Ellie Kilpatrick, Enforcement Intern at the Fair Housing Center. Check out our interview with Ellie as she shares what motivates her to do this work!
What brought you to the Fair Housing Center?
For spring break during my final year in college, I took a short-term study abroad course in the Netherlands, which focused on social justice, specifically Violence & Health Prevention. We studied and analyzed Dutch social policies and compared them to U.S. social policies. Each day we visited different organizations and learned about their work and the issues they work to address in their nation’s society. I found myself most interested in the Housing First project lead by HVO-Querido Discus in Amsterdam. They assist their clients, homeless individuals with mental or addiction related disabilities, in gaining their own housing so that clients no longer needed to “shelter hop” or sleep on the streets. Clients work with social workers specifically matched based on the kind of provider-client relationship best suited for their needs (i.e. a coach vs. a buddy vs. a teacher). After taking this course, I returned to the States wanting to become more involved in work that aligned with the organizations that we visited. And that is how I ended up here, assisting and working with victims of housing discrimination.
How long have you worked here?
Well, I’ve only been working here since June 1st, 2018… so not very long. But I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my past few months!
Can you briefly describe your role at the Fair Housing Center?
My official title is Enforcement Intern. So, I work very closely with the Enforcement team, assisting with client intake, providing referrals, informing individuals of their fair housing rights, managing client cases, drafting fair housing complaints for clients, etc. I also assist in researching and drafting agency complaints on behalf of the Fair Housing Center.
What is your favorite part of your job?
That is a difficult question. But, one of my favorite parts of the job is helping clients and, when possible, seeing a case through to a successful outcome. Sometimes it can be as simple as informing clients of their fair housing rights and actions to address their concerns.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to spend time with my close friends and family. I can often be found attempting to “dog-nap” my friend’s dog to take to the dog park and take on walks because I love dogs and I don’t own my own… yet.
If you could choose one fair housing issue that you wish people knew more about, what would it be?
Another difficult question… I wish more people knew about criminal background and the discriminatory effect that blanket bans have. Having policies that ban individuals with a criminal background without taking into consideration mitigating circumstances has such a devastating impact on numerous individuals.
Stay tuned for more spotlights by following the hashtag #FacesOfFairHousing on Instagram and be sure to check back for weekly content on our blog.