Our first step to improving conditions at properties is talking to renters. Engaging renters in conversations helps identify  common problems. We employ a variety of outreach techniques to connect with tenants at substandard properties and to figure out what issues are most important to them.

Outreach techniques include

canvassing, one-on-one

conversations, meetings,

flyering, attending resource

fairs, and conducting

educational workshops.

One way we identify substandard properties is through the City of Austin's Repeat Offender Program, where rental properties with numerous health and safety complaints are registered.

Did your landlord make the list? Check out the map here. Then give us a call.

Part of our mission is creating solidarity in tenant communities by developing tenants associations.  After initial outreach, our team organizes meetings where we bring neighbors together to discuss their common goals and the role collective action can play in achieving them.

Once formed, we work with tenants associations to build the

association's membership, facilitate a culture of consensus-

oriented decision-making, and develop  the leadership skills

 necessary to sustain a tenant-led organization.

We help associations navigate the ups and downs inherent to

this work.  Keeping an inclusive tenant association active

requires navigating the challenges of poverty, racism, and a

culture of individualism. Organizers help tenant

associations overcome these barriers.

Our goal is to create sustainable and autonomous tenant associations by cultivating leadership in tenant communities.

We provide one-on-one guidance and group trainings in the following areas: outreach methods, facilitation techniques, negotiation strategy, campaign planning, and property research.

By developing leaders, tenants associations are equipped to more  effectively advocate for themselves and their neighbors.