DT #598 Iowa's Innovative Answer to Housing Shortages and Second Chances

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

🏠 Show Notes

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Mike Norris, Executive Director of SEIRPC and President of the Homes for Iowa Board of Directors, and David Miller, Executive Director of Homes for Iowa. Together, they share how an innovative Iowa initiative is tackling two of the state's most pressing challenges—affordable housing and workforce development—while also giving incarcerated individuals a second chance.

Built on a powerful public-private partnership with Iowa Prison Industries, Homes for Iowa trains men at the Newton, IA Correctional Facility in construction trades while building high-quality, affordable homes that are then moved to communities across the state.

Since launching in 2019, the program has:✅ Constructed and moved over 150 homes to 50 Iowa counties✅ Helped reduce recidivism by providing meaningful job training and purpose✅ Filled a crucial gap in the affordable housing market✅ Earned strong community support and positive feedback statewide

Mike and David discuss how the program came to life, what they've learned along the way, and their vision for the future—including expanding production capacity and creating an alumni foundation for program graduates.

Whether you're an economic developer, housing professional, or community leader, this episode delivers powerful lessons on innovation, collaboration, and human impact—a true model for other states to follow.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Homes for Iowa provides affordable homes while training incarcerated men in building trades.
• The initiative helps reduce recidivism and strengthens Iowa's workforce pipeline.
• 150+ homes have already been placed in 50 counties across Iowa.
• Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
• The program's public-private partnership with Iowa Prison Industries is central to its success.
• Future goals include expanding operations and creating a support network for alumni.
• Homes for Iowa serves as a replicable model for other states facing similar challenges.