Ryan Pope
Co-Chair, Local Advocacy Workgroup
Senior Director, Multifamily Development & Finance, NH Housing
Ryan is a seasoned housing advocate with a professional background in community banking, real estate finance, municipal planning, and nonprofit leadership. Prior to accepting his role at NH Housing, Ryan was the City of Dover’s Housing Navigator, working closely with residents, businesses, service organizations, and the City’s staff and elected officials to identify and address housing needs through community engagement, regulatory reform, and public-private initiatives. In addition to his service with Home For All, Ryan currently serves as board Chair of the Workforce Housing Coalition of the Greater Seacoast and board Vice Chair of Fair Tide in Kittery, ME. He resides in Hampton with his wife, Gina, and their rescue-pup, Harper.
Where did you grow up and how did that experience shape you or influence the path you followed in life?
New Hampshire has always been home to me. I was born here, raised here, and my childhood memories are largely framed by the beaches, lakes, mountains, woods, and sledding hills that make this small state so special. I have always appreciated growing up in a place surrounded by nature and community, and I have been privileged enough to remain here into adulthood. What bothers me in all this, is that simply remaining a part of your community shouldn’t be a privilege. The rising cost of housing is changing the character of our towns and cities, effectively pushing residents further from home or, with increasing frequency, into homelessness. I am a housing advocate because I believe we’re better than that.
Why do you think affordable housing is important now?
Housing underpins every aspect of individual and societal well-being, and recent market trends are making it harder and harder for people to secure and maintain their homes. Unfortunately, those at greatest risk of displacement are the ones who contribute most directly to the cultural and economic vibrancy that make our communities attractive in the first place. The existence of housing options that are affordable to residents, regardless of their age, income, or ability, is necessary for the long-term viability of our region and the wellbeing of our neighbors.