Our Story
In 1982, legendary urban visionary Jim Rouse and his wife Patty founded Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. (then named The Enterprise Foundation), with the ambitious goal of making sure every American lives in a decent, affordable home. Today, Enterprise is a leading provider of capital and expertise for affordable housing in thriving communities.Enterprise and its family of companies work as one entity with partners—developers, investors, government, community-based nonprofits and others—to reach our common goal.
Read our story.
Our History
In 1972, three members of the Church of the Saviour, Terry Flood, Barbara Moore and Carolyn Banker wanted to create low-income housing in the Adams Morgan neighborhood of D.C. With no development, financial or construction experience, they put down a non-refundable deposit to purchase the Ritz and Mozart apartment buildings.
Their commitment won over Jim Rouse, CEO of The Rouse Company and he helped them secure $625,000 to complete the transaction and $125,000 toward the cost of rehabilitation. Jubilee Housing was born in 1973, and Jim was a founding member and instrumental contributor.
Jubilee Housing provided the launchpad for Jim and Patty Rouse to start the Enterprise Foundation in 1982. In 2005, it was renamed Enterprise Community Partners. Today, Enterprise continues to work to uphold the standards set by Jim and Patty to see that all people have the opportunity for affordable housing.