Housing Rocks
What does home mean to you?
Every rock in this display was painted by a member of our community. Together, they tell a larger story about home, belonging, and the importance of having a place to call your own.
About Housing Rocks
Housing Rocks is a community art initiative led by HAND, Inc. to spark conversation about the growing need for affordable housing options at different stages of life.
Community members of all ages are invited to paint rocks that represent what “home” means to them. Some feature front doors, pets, family, favorite foods, or places that bring comfort and stability.
These rocks are displayed throughout the community as a public art installation designed to start conversations about housing and the role it plays in helping people thrive.
Housing challenges affect more of our neighbors than many people realize.
According to United Way’s 2026 ALICE Report, 26,696 households in Hamilton County are ALICE, meaning they earn above the poverty level but below the basic cost of living. Another 8,068 households are living in poverty.
Together, that represents 34,764 households in Hamilton County living below the ALICE Threshold.
These are our neighbors.
People who already live and work here.
We build, preserve, and advocate for affordable housing.
HAND, Inc. is a local nonprofit that provides quality affordable housing and advocates for housing options where everyone can thrive.
Since 2003, HAND has worked to create housing opportunities for seniors, families, and individuals throughout Hamilton, Boone, and Tipton counties.
Today, HAND owns and manages 11 affordable rental communities with 157 homes.
Where You’ll Find Housing Rocks
The Housing Rocks display is designed to move throughout the community, showing up in places where people already gather.
- Libraries
- Parks
- Trails
- Schools
- Churches
- Community events
Want to be part of Housing Rocks?
Schools, churches, businesses, civic groups, families, and community organizations can all take part.
Paint Rocks
Host a rock painting activity with your school, church, business, or community group.
Host a Display
Bring Housing Rocks to your library, park, office, campus, or community event.
Support the Project
Help us grow the project through donations, sponsorships, or volunteer support.
See the Rocks
As the project grows, we’ll continue adding photos from painting activities and community displays.
Thanks for learning more about Housing Rocks.
Together, we can create more understanding, more conversation, and more support for housing options in our community.