Building Opportunity Through Housing
Blue Ridge Cascade (BRC) is a national leader in affordable housing, dedicated to providing high-quality, attainable homes for families, seniors, and workforce residents. Through innovative financing, strategic partnerships, and forward-thinking development, we create lasting housing solutions that strengthen communities.
We believe that safe, stable, and attainable housing is the foundation for stronger communities and greater economic mobility. Unlike developers with a one-size-fits-all approach, we tailor every project to the unique needs of each project. Whether urban, suburban, or rural, we ensure long-term affordability, opportunity, and growth.
Beyond housing, we invest in resident services and community partnerships that support financial literacy, workforce training, education, and wellness initiatives, fostering lasting impact beyond our developments.
As we continue to expand, we welcome partnerships with investors, municipalities, nonprofits, and community organizations to create housing solutions that uplift communities across the country.
Our Core Values
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of accountability, ensuring responsible growth and long-term success for our residents, partners, and investors.
Innovation
We embrace forward-thinking development strategies that balance affordability, efficiency, and long-term impact, customizing our approach for each community.
Resilience
We build more than housing—we create thriving neighborhoods designed to support economic mobility, stability, and growth.
Collaboration
We work alongside public, private, and nonprofit organizations to create housing solutions that serve real people and strengthen communities.
Community
We are committed to providing high-quality, accessible housing that fosters financial security and upward mobility for individuals and families.
A Legacy of Affordable Housing Excellence
From our roots in the Pacific Northwest to our expanding national footprint, our story is one of integrity, innovation, and a long-term commitment to quality housing.
1982 — Shelter Resources, Inc. (SRI) is Founded
Blue Ridge Cascade traces its origins to Shelter Resources, Inc., launched in Bellevue, Washington by Len Brannen. Over four decades, SRI became a trusted leader in affordable housing—developing and rehabilitating over 6,500 units across Washington, Oregon, Alaska, California, and Idaho. These developments ranged from family and senior housing to supportive residences for individuals facing homelessness or requiring tailored services. SRI earned a reputation for quality, strategic partnerships, and creative financing, often collaborating with municipalities and nonprofits to meet local needs.
2018 — Blue Ridge Atlantic Development is Formed
To bring SRI’s proven development model to new geographies, Blue Ridge Atlantic Development (BRAD) was launched as an affiliated company by partners Len Brannen and Chris Eisenzimmer. Initially focused on high-demand sunbelt markets in the South and East Coast, BRAD brought the same commitment to community-first development, delivering high quality projects for families, seniors, and America’s workforce.
2024 — Blue Ridge Cascade Unifies Two Proven Platforms
With shared ownership, staffing, and financial leadership, SRI and BRAD formally consolidated under one name: Blue Ridge Cascade (BRC). This unified platform strengthens operational coordination and scales the impact of more than 8,000 units developed across eight states, with over 2,500 units currently in construction or development.
With over 45 years of experience, deep public-private partnerships, and proven financing tools—including tax-exempt bonds and Low-Income Housing Tax Credits—BRC continues its mission with a triple responsibility:
- To residents—by creating supportive, opportunity-rich communities
- To public funders—by delivering outcomes that honor public trust
- To private partners—by generating strong, stable returns
This legacy forms the foundation for a future of possibility—where quality housing creates lasting change.
Stronger Partnerships, Stronger Communities
Collaboration is at the core of Blue Ridge Cascade’s (BRC) approach to affordable housing. We work with public, private, and nonprofit partners to maximize resources, enhance economic mobility, and ensure long-term affordability. These strategic alliances allow us to deliver high-quality developments that support families, seniors, and workforce residents nationwide.
BRC partners with local, state, and federal agencies to develop housing solutions that align with community priorities. Our team navigates funding sources, regulatory requirements, and public-private partnerships to create attainable housing that meets the diverse needs and goals of growing communities.
How we work together:
- Leverage public-private partnerships (P3 funding) to expand housing access
- Align with government housing initiatives to deliver long-term affordability
- Ensure regulatory compliance while streamlining development processes
- Utilize federal, state, and local subsidies to support new and existing projects
We collaborate with national organizations and housing advocates to champion affordable housing initiatives across the country. These partnerships help amplify our efforts, integrate supportive services, and create housing developments that address not only shelter needs but also broader social challenges like education, workforce development, and community health.
How we work together:
- Secure funding and resources through mission-aligned partnerships
- Implement financial literacy, workforce development, and resident support programs
- Develop housing solutions that integrate education, employment, and health resources
- Expand social services with designated Community Service Coordinators for each project
BRC partners with construction firms, suppliers, financial institutions, and private investors to drive cost-effective, high-quality developments that balance affordability with market resilience. These relationships allow us to scale our impact while delivering strong investment returns.
How we work together:
- Develop Class A affordable housing with high-quality construction and efficient cost structures
- Source innovative building solutions and materials to optimize project value
- Maintain seamless project management to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery
- Collaborate with financial institutions to structure creative, state-of-the-art bond and financing models
BRC ensures that housing stability leads to economic mobility by integrating education, employment, and social programs into our developments. We partner with schools, healthcare providers, workforce organizations, and employers to provide resident services that promote long-term success.
How we work together:
- Provide after-school tutoring, workforce training, and financial literacy programs
- Partner with local employers and workforce agencies to offer job placement opportunities
- Host community engagement initiatives that foster resident well-being and economic self-sufficiency
Our Partners
