20+ Years of Leadership in Ending Homelessness Systems
About Amanda Harris Consulting

Expertise Rooted in Experience

Two decades of work across direct service, government leadership, and national consulting—building homelessness response systems that are effective, equitable, and deeply human.

Amanda Harris

A 360° View of Homelessness Systems

My path has taken me through nearly every layer of the homelessness response system.

Direct Service

Pathways to Housing DC

I began in clinical housing programs, leading behavioral health teams using the Housing First model. Working directly with individuals navigating housing instability grounded my approach in dignity, urgency, and real-life complexity.

As Chief of Services to End and Prevent Homelessness, I managed a $100M annual budget, led more than 100 staff, and oversaw system redesign that reduced homelessness by 31%, ended chronic homelessness for over 500 individuals, and launched a $100M eviction prevention initiative serving more than 12,000 households.

Government Leadership

Montgomery County, MD

National Consulting

AJH Consulting LLC

Today, I advise city leaders, county governments, coalitions, and nonprofits nationwide—helping them align funding, governance, and performance strategies to build systems that create lasting outcomes.

"I've worked every side of the table—direct service, government, and consulting—and I know that change happens when everyone has a seat."

Powered by Housing First

Housing is not a reward—it is the foundation for stability, recovery, and belonging. Housing First is not a program; it's a philosophy that recognizes people's right to safe, stable housing without preconditions.

Throughout my career, I've seen this approach work—not just in theory, but in practice. It works when systems are designed around it, when funding is aligned to support it, and when leaders commit to it with fidelity and accountability.

This is the lens through which I approach every engagement: centering dignity, challenging the status quo, and building systems that reflect the urgency of the moment and the humanity of the people we serve.

Experience That Spans the Sector

Strategic Leadership

Led system transformation initiatives across multiple jurisdictions, managing large-scale budgets and cross-sector coalitions.

Data & Performance

Expert in HMIS optimization, coordinated entry design, and building data systems that drive accountability and continuous improvement.

Equity & Inclusion

Centered racial equity in system design, implementing practices that address disparities and promote justice.

Housing First Implementation

Deep practitioner knowledge of evidence-based models including Permanent Supportive Housing and Rapid Re-Housing.

Governance & Collaboration

Built and facilitated multi-stakeholder governance structures, aligning agencies, nonprofits, and lived experience voices.

Crisis Response Innovation

Designed flexible interventions and prevention strategies that meet people where they are with what they need.

Credentials & Recognition

Education

Master's in Social Work with focus on clinical practice and systems leadership

Certifications

Housing First, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Informed Care

Speaking

National conference presenter on system design, equity, and Housing First implementation

Leadership Roles

Former board member and advisor to multiple regional homelessness coalitions and policy organizations

Let's Build What's Next

Whether you're ready for a full system redesign or need strategic guidance on a specific challenge, I bring the experience and insight to help your community move forward.

Schedule a Consultation