Featured Speakers

FEATURED SPEAKERS

Housing: More Than Just a Solution to Homelessness

Monday, November 9 Plenary Panel

Houston and Harris County have earned national recognition for both their robust housing development environment and their success in reducing street homelessness, yet these achievements are too often discussed as separate stories. This panel will explore how housing production, affordability, supportive housing, public policy, and coordinated service systems intersect to shape homelessness outcomes and broader community well-being. Drawing on perspectives from leaders in housing development and homeless response, the discussion will consider what Houston’s experience can teach other regions about treating housing not only as a response to crisis, but as essential civic infrastructure.

Kris Larson, AICP, LPM

President & CEO, Downtown Houston+

Brief bio

Kris Larson is the President & CEO of Central Houston, Inc. He’s held positions on the public and private sides of community leadership and served as the President & CEO for the downtown organizations in Raleigh, NC, and Grand Rapids, MI, where he led TIF and special-assessment districts. He earned an MPA from NC State University, was a Daniel Rose Fellow through the Rose Center for Public Leadership, and was a Vice Chair of the IDA’s Executive Committee. The IDA has awarded four Pinnacle Awards to his projects in the fields and Leadership, Planning, Advocacy, and Marketing.

Neal Rackleff

Executive Vice President & COO, Housing Alliance HTX

Brief bio

Neal Rackleff is a seasoned leader with an impressive 31-year career bridging government and the private sector. With 16 years in government roles and 17 in the private sector, Neal brings a wealth of experience to the table.

As a dedicated advocate, Neal’s commitment to honesty, transparency, and focused community engagement has earned him trust across various legislative bodies. His roles have been diverse and impactful, including serving as HUD Assistant Secretary, overseeing billions in funding, and as Director of Houston Housing and Community Development, where he made significant strides in reducing homelessness.

Neal’s passion for community development extends beyond his government tenure. As the Founder of Rackleff LLP, he manages legal matters while actively contributing to community initiatives, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact at every opportunity.

Kelly Young

President & CEO for Coalition for the Homeless of Houston / Harris County

Brief bio

Kelly Young is the president and CEO of CFTH and has been with the organization since January 2024. Kelly helps guide CFTH’s overall mission and provides strategic leadership to manage the organization and navigate stakeholder relationships. Previously, Kelly served as CEO for Career and Recovery Resources where she helped break barriers for people experiencing substance abuse, underemployment, and housing instability. With over 20 years of leadership, change management, and organizational and program design experience, Kelly’s career has centered on building programs and leading organizations that serve vulnerable populations experiencing difficult social and health concerns. Originally from Oregon, Kelly holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Portland State University and a master’s degree in Managerial Sciences from Amberton University.