Homeward: The Housing Tradeoffs Game for Communities

Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the interactive nature of learning labs, only those with a seat may participate. Please arrive early to secure your spot!

Homeward is an interactive, 90-minute Learning Lab that immerses participants in real-world challenges of creating affordable, sustainable, and financially viable housing. Originally developed by ULI Boston/New England for use in Massachusetts, Homeward is quickly gaining a national audience as communities across the country seek innovative ways to address housing needs.

Through this dynamic board game simulation, take on the roles of teams with unique goals and constraints and work together, or in competition, to design thriving neighborhoods. Learn to balance density, affordability, open space, and environmental impacts while meeting financial feasibility targets. Using goal cards, Lego blocks, and a project pro forma, practice using tools that mirror real-world planning processes, including collaborative negotiation, scenario planning, and rapid feasibility testing.

This engaging format builds skills in stakeholder engagement, conflict resolution, and policy trade-off analysis - core competencies for planners tackling today's housing shortage. By emphasizing inclusive and equitable planning, the game requires participants to consider social, mobility, spatial, and sustainability objectives in every decision. Leave with practical strategies to bridge competing interests, integrate diverse perspectives, and champion housing solutions that advance equity and deliver tangible community outcomes. Be ready to apply lessons immediately in your work.

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