Who We Are
Better Housing Solutions is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Jefferson County, Arkansas, working to create safe, affordable housing and supportive services for adults with physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities throughout Southeast Arkansas.
Our long-term vision includes housing, day services, respite care, transportation, life-skills support, and other services designed to promote greater stability, independence, dignity, and community connection.
Our Story
Why Better Housing Solutions Was Founded
Better Housing Solutions began with a question many families of individuals with disabilities know all too well:
What happens next?
For years, BHS founder Deb Pittillo worked in special education alongside students with disabilities and their families. Through those relationships, she saw the uncertainty that can begin as students approach adulthood and the services and supports available through the school system begin to change.
Families were not only thinking about today. They were thinking about the future.
Where will my loved one live?
Will they be safe?
Will they be supported and understood?
Will they have opportunities to participate in their community?
And who will be there when I can no longer provide the level of care and support, I provide today?
Arkansas is home to organizations, facilities, caregivers, and professionals already doing important work for individuals with disabilities. Better Housing Solutions was not created to diminish those efforts. It was created because there are still gaps to fill and families who need more options.
Some adults need support but do not require nursing-home care. Others may benefit from transportation, structured daytime activities, respite services, life-skills support, or housing designed around their individual needs. Families need choices that recognize that disability does not look the same for everyone.
From that need, the vision for Better Housing Solutions began.
BHS was founded in 2025 with a commitment to work toward safe, affordable, and appropriate housing and supportive services for adults with physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities, beginning in Jefferson County and serving the greater Southeast Arkansas community.
The word "Better" in our name is intentional.
It does not mean that we believe we have every answer or that the work already being done in our communities is not valuable. It represents our commitment to keep listening, learning, collaborating, and searching for better ways to support individuals and their families.
Better communication.
Better access to support.
Better opportunities for independence
Better partnerships with families and communities.
Better options for the future.
What began as one educator recognizing an unmet need has grown into a community-driven vision for something larger - a future where adults with disabilities have meaningful choices, families have greater peace of mind, and every person is treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Every Home. Every Heart. Every Life.
Our Mission
The mission of Better Housing Solutions is to expand opportunities for adults with physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities by working to provide safe, affordable, and appropriate housing, supportive services, transportation, and community-based resources that promote dignity, independence, inclusion, and quality of life.
Our Vision
Our Vision is a Southeast Arkansas where adults with physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities have meaningful choices for where and how they live, access to the support and services they need, and the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, safety, and a true sense of belonging within their community.
Our Values
We believe every person deserves to be treated with respect, valued as an individual, and supported in ways that honor their choices, needs, and humanity.
Where Are We Today?
Better Housing Solutions is currently in the planning and development stage. During 2026, our work is focused on fundraising, community partnerships, outreach, program development, and building the foundation necessary to begin services.
Our Team.
Our team at Better Housing Solutions is made up of people who share a genuine passion for advocacy, inclusion, and creating better opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families. We each bring different experiences, skills, and perspectives to the table, but we are united by one purpose: helping build a future where everyone has access to a safe, supportive place to call home.
We believe the best work happens through compassion, collaboration, listening, and staying connected to the people and communities we serve. Behind every title is a person who truly cares about the mission—and about the lives we hope to impact.
Meet the people helping turn the vision of Better Housing Solutions into something real.
Deb Pittillo
Founder & Board President
Lou Ann Thompson
Board Treasurer
Josh Robertson
Board Secretary
Katy Brightop
Executive Director
Melissa Graham
Social Media & Marketing Director
Where We Serve
Registered in Redfield, Arkansas, serving Southeast Arkansas, beginning in Jefferson County. We currently operate without a physical office to minimize overhead and maximize impact.
NONPROFIT & TRANSPARENCY
Better Housing Solutions is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to serving adults with physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities and the families who support them.
We believe transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship are essential to building trust with the individuals, families, donors, volunteers, and community partners who support our mission.
Founded: 2025
Service Area: Jefferson County and Southeast Arkansas
Federal EIN: 39-3944928
As Better Housing Solutions continues to grow, we are committed to sharing clear information about our mission, organizational development, community involvement, and the progress we are making toward future programs and services.
Every Home. Every Heart. Every Life.