Tiny Homes, Big Impact: Pivot's ULI-Recognized Initiative for Oklahoma City's At-Risk Youth

PIVOT, an Oklahoma City-based nonprofit, provides housing and support services for at-risk youth. Its innovative tiny homes and approach to addressing homelessness among young adults has gained recognition from the Urban Land Institute (ULI), which listed PIVOT as one of the top 10 projects delivering compact residential spaces that offer affordable city living options, foster community and minimize environmental impacts.

"One of the issues at the core of our work is when our kids get closer to 18 and eventually age out of the foster care system, there is not a real plan for them,” said Chandy Rice, senior director of development at PIVOT. “They don’t have a place to go and it’s heartbreaking.”

This concept has transformed into a tangible solution, offering a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable young individuals. "The tiny homes represent a tangible solution to the housing insecurity faced by at-risk youth," emphasized Rice. "They provide a safe and supportive environment where residents can build a foundation for a brighter future."

Residents have responded positively to their new living arrangements, sparking immediate improvements in behavior and outlook. "Previously, the closer our kids got to 18, their behavior would get worse; they would act out, run away, or fall into substance abuse. When the tiny home project started, they looked out the windows and could see there was a plan beginning to take shape for them. They got excited, positive and more driven. It was an immediate change we noticed," Rice observed.

Despite challenges during design and construction, including limited city code regulations and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, PIVOT remained resolute in its mission. "Construction during the pandemic was tough. It took a long time to build and get people to agree due to high turnover at the city at that time," Rice reflected.

Funding for PIVOT's initiative came from various sources, including a Federal Housing Trust Fund grant through the Oklahoma Finance Authority, which provided enough money to build the first 20 tiny homes.

Oklahoma State University architecture students played a crucial role in the design phase, providing innovative and practical designs for the homes. The single-level structures, ranging from 280 to 320 square feet, each feature a bathroom and kitchen area, with most designed as open-plan or efficiency-style spaces. A few include separate bedrooms, providing a variety of living arrangements to suit different needs.

Looking ahead, PIVOT plans to expand its initiative with 15 additional tiny homes set to open in June 2024 and nine more to be built with MAPS 4 funding.

In addition to housing, PIVOT offers a comprehensive suite of support services, including access to therapists, case managers, and job opportunities through initiatives like the PIVOT Preserves Jam Company. "We’re helping build a base where these kids can start trying to break through their trauma barriers," Rice emphasized.

Amidst these initiatives lies one success story of many: a young lady aged out of the system and moved into a tiny home. She eventually got accepted to OSU and is now a student there. "We helped her through the applications process and move into the dorms," shared Rice, highlighting the transformative impact of PIVOT's support.

As PIVOT continues to grow, its mission to empower at-risk youth remains. "We're always looking for individuals and organizations to join us in this journey," Rice encouraged. "Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most."