Our Story
We’re at the Forefront of a Movement
A Note from Our Founder and CEO: Rodney Bullard
I grew up in Decatur, Georgia, the son of a Baptist minister and an educator. As a result, I inherited a love for people and a deep respect for learning.
Along the way, my professional and volunteer work exposed me to the real needs and challenges facing our society as we grapple with the dual crises of human connectivity and a lack of economic mobility for far too many people in this country. This afforded a daily, ground-level view of both the challenges and barriers and also the support, investments, and solutions our communities need to thrive.
In 2019, these forces in my universe came together in perfect symmetry when I was invited to help create the first Beloved Benefit in Atlanta. A heart-and-soul stirring experience, the Beloved Benefit continues to bring people together from every neighborhood and community in Atlanta to strengthen our city. This extraordinary evening evolved into The Same House.
Along the way, my professional and volunteer work exposed me to the real needs and challenges facing our society as we grapple with the dual crises of human connectivity and a lack of economic mobility for far too many people in this country. This afforded a daily, ground-level view of both the challenges and barriers and also the support, investments, and solutions our communities need to thrive.
Our Mission
and Purpose
Our mission is deeply rooted in the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Beloved Community” and the inspiring words of John Lewis:
We’re one people. We’re one family. We all live in the same house.Congressman John Lewis
Our Goals
Economic Goal
Economic Goal: We aim to create greater economic mobility and opportunity, especially in underserved areas.
Social Goal
We work to tackle community divides through fostering social belonging, improving mental health, and enhancing connections.
Same City. Worlds Apart. Let’s Bridge the Gap.
Of course, there is much work to be done. Our communities are facing rapid changes and uncertainties that continue to widen the gap to achieve real equity. It is a clear reminder that we can live in the same city but be worlds apart. With the faith, love for community, and passion for learning inherited from my parents and the power of service experienced along the way, I am honored to lead this organization and help guide a movement, keenly focused on this work.
Our Work
At The Same House, we are building a new type of community services movement grounded in bridging societal differences and leveraging our collective goodness.
Our efforts focus on reducing homelessness, poverty, crime, and other societal issues that affect us all.
Our collective, significant investments have made a real, positive impact on many lives, helping people find jobs, feed their families, receive career training, and afford better housing.