Homeownership has long been a way for families to build and pass down wealth in the U.S, but for generations, systemic barriers have made it much harder for Black families to access that opportunity. At The Road Home, we’ve worked with families who, after securing stable housing, have expressed a strong desire to take the next step—owning a home. For many, homeownership represents not just stability but a path toward generational wealth and a more secure future.
In Wisconsin, where the homeownership gap between Black and white households remains stark, we’re proud to highlight Own It: Building Black Wealth, a community organization working to change that. Through education, financial assistance, and community-driven advocacy, Own It equips Black families with the tools needed to turn homeownership from a distant goal into a reality.
Closing the Wealth Gap Through Targeted Support
Own It serves individuals who have demonstrated financial discipline—renters who have maintained steady employment yet still find homeownership out of reach. Many have been renting for years and holding steady jobs, showing the consistency needed to be homeowners. Own It helps bridge the gap by providing the support they need to take that next step.
That support comes through Own It’s cohort-based programming and direct financial assistance. Their Wealth Building Course (WBC) and Homeownership Course provide essential financial education, while down payment assistance grants—recently increased to $19,000—help families compete in today’s housing market.
Advocacy and Systemic Change
While Own It is making direct impacts, they recognize that the residual effects of redlining and segregation continue to shape communities today. These practices not only carved out cities, but also created lasting disparities in wealth and homeownership opportunities for Black families. One of the biggest barriers to homeownership remains access to information and resources. Many families miss out on wealth-building opportunities simply because they don’t have the necessary guidance or support.
Ian Carter, Co-Director of Own It, emphasizes the importance of education in bridging this gap.
“A lot of times, people don’t own homes simply because they don’t understand homeownership,” Carter explained.
Everyone involved in Own It’s work contributes on a volunteer basis. This structure is beneficial because many of the volunteers work in real estate and lending, allowing them to be immersed in the industry every day. The people integral to Own It’s mission are on the ground floor of advocacy, working directly within the systems they aim to change.
A Vision for the Future
Ultimately, Own It hopes for a future where programs like theirs are no longer needed. “The goal is to get to the point where we don’t need these services,” Carter said. “That these racial disparities, which have been purposely and strategically put in place for generations, no longer exist.”
By equipping Black families with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the homeownership process, Own It is not only helping individuals buy homes—they are cultivating a more equitable future for generations to come.
To learn more about Own It: Building Black Wealth and how you can support their mission, visit https://ownitmadison.org/ or get involved in their advocacy efforts.