Housing & Community Development

Michael Appel has worked in the field of housing and community development for over 25 years.  Since 1993, he has worked at Avalon Housing, starting as Housing Development Specialist and later serving as Associate and then Executive Director.  He is currently Senior Developer at Avalon.  Since 2016, he has also been Senior Project Manager with Develop Detroit.  He has developed over 200 units of permanent supportive housing at nearly 20 different projects—with involvement from site selection through closing and rent-up.   He has successfully secured financing for housing development, as well as ongoing operating grants, support services grants and rental assistance.  Beginning as a tenant organizer and housing advocate, he has extensive experience in organizing, advocacy and policy initiatives, as well as organizational development. He has also taught Community Practice courses at the University of Michigan School of Social Work, led trainings and provided technical assistance.