Our History, Mission and Core Values
An Enlightened Beginning to a New Industry
MidPen was founded in 1970 when David Packard, Bill Hewlett, and a small group of community and business leaders came together to address the racial discrimination and inequitable access to housing in the Bay Area and establish a self-supporting organization with a clear social mission. Driven by the belief that there had to be a better way to build affordable housing, MidPen ushered in a new paradigm: beautifully designed and well-managed housing built near good schools, jobs and transit. The kinds of communities that support racial and economic inclusion; make residents and neighbors proud; and revitalize cities and neighborhoods.
Since then, MidPen has grown into a multifaceted organization with communities in 12 counties and a team of more than 550 employees. Our founding principles continue to guide our beliefs today: attract passionate, high-caliber talent; stay focused on the mission; rigorously steward our assets; and collaborate with other industry leaders.
A Mission-Driven Organization
We stand by our mission: To provide safe, affordable housing of high quality to those in need; establish stability and opportunity in the lives of residents; and foster diverse communities that allow people from all ethnic, social and economic backgrounds to live in dignity, harmony and mutual respect.
Core Values and Guiding Principles
In support of our mission we commit to uphold the following values:
Integrity
We provide accurate, transparent and timely information, manage our company resources responsibly, and conduct all parts of our business ethically, honestly and fairly in an environment where authenticity is welcomed and affirmed.
Collaboration
We work as a team that actively participates in inclusive communication. We seek out, honor, listen to, and include diverse opinions, ideas and skill sets to achieve common goals. We understand that we are truly better together, and that individual success is linked to our success as a team.
Accountability
We follow through in a timely manner on the commitments we make to one another, our partners, our residents and our communities. We take responsibility for – and learn from – our actions.
Respect
We treat our employees, residents, vendors, partners, investors and the communities in which we work with dignity, equity, and compassion. We welcome social, cultural, and intellectual diversity, and we recognize and value the unique contributions that everyone makes in all areas of our work.
Excellence
We strive for quality and professionalism and provide equitable opportunities for success. We create an environment of belonging where we encourage learning and understanding, value input, inspire extraordinary work, and recognize results.
We believe in these guiding principles: