Elkhart proclaims April 2026 Fair Housing Month, partners announce outreach

Elkhart — Mayor Rod Robertson presented a proclamation at the April 6 council meeting designating April 2026 as Fair Housing Month in Elkhart, commemorating the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and reaffirming the city’s commitment to equal housing opportunity.

Dan O’Donnell and community partners joined the mayor at the podium to explain public outreach efforts. Dana Donald (community representative) described plans for a spring-break fair housing education event and noted that the Elkhart County Board of Realtors is sponsoring a pizza event and has arranged 10 billboards around the city from March 30 through April 20 to raise awareness.

Steve Bottom, president of the Elkhart County Board of Realtors, accepted the proclamation on the board’s behalf and said the recognition highlighted the importance of partnerships among local government, housing providers, advocates, and residents in expanding access and preventing discrimination.

The proclamation text cited the anniversary of the 1968 Fair Housing Act and encouraged 'agencies, institutions, businesses, and individuals' to uphold the law’s intent. Council members posed no objections and the group took a ceremonial photograph at the meeting.

Next steps: Community outreach events announced at the meeting will proceed as planned; the city and partner organizations will continue public education on housing rights.