MDC - Metropolitan Development Council

To provide programs and access to resources that reduce poverty and create a more equitable community.

Founded in 1964 as a 501c3 organization under the Economic Opportunity Act to address America's War on Poverty, MDC remains steadfast in its mission to provide programs and access to resources that reduce poverty and create a more equitable community. Our vision is to cultivate an economically equitable community in which people work together to enhance the quality of life for the people we serve and improve the well-being of our communities.

As part of a national network of organizations known as Community Action Agencies (CAAs), we collaborate with nonprofit, private, and public entities to ensure equitable access to education, training, and resources, facilitating pathways out of poverty and towards dignified living. Designated as the CAA for the City of Tacoma, MDC serves as a beacon of hope and support for individuals throughout Pierce County.

For over six decades, MDC has been at the forefront of combating poverty's paradox in Pierce County, providing crucial support to individuals and families striving for self-sufficiency. Our comprehensive programs primarily focus on Housing, Behavioral Health, and Education.

In the Housing domain, we offer a spectrum of services ranging from energy assistance and weatherization programs to case management for rapid re-housing and permanent supportive housing initiatives. Currently managing a portfolio of over 200 residential units, with plans to expand to 500 more units in 2025, we cater to low- to no-income individuals and families facing homelessness or residing in shelters. Our housing initiatives prioritize affordability, independence, meeting physical needs, and fostering community ties to ensure a supportive environment for all residents.

Our Behavioral Health programs encompass withdrawal management for substance abuse, counseling, and medicated assisted treatment options. We currently expanded our withdrawal management services from sixteen to thirty-two beds.

While our Housing and Behavioral Health programs address immediate needs, our Education initiatives pave the way for long-term empowerment and resilience. Through partnerships with Pierce County community and technical colleges, as well as universities, MDC staff actively engage with students, providing guidance on admissions, financial aid, and other vital services to ensure access to educational opportunities.

Our Upward Bound program further supports low-income, first-generation students in overcoming educational and employment barriers, guiding them towards high school graduation, college enrollment, and meaningful career paths. Through mentorship and information sessions, we equip students with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of higher education and the job market.

The individuals and families we serve are often among the most vulnerable, facing housing and financial instability, compounded by factors such as homelessness, substance abuse disorders, mental health crises, and more. Our clientele includes a disproportionate number of BIPOC individuals, people with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ community members, reflecting the pressing need for inclusive, targeted support.

What sets MDC apart is our holistic approach to service delivery, ensuring that individuals receive tailored support that addresses their unique needs. Whether through our Welcome Center, Outreach Team, or collaboration with referral partners, we meet individuals where they are, providing comprehensive assistance to foster long-term stability and independence.