Ted Phillips

Ted Phillips has proudly served as the Executive Director of United Community Housing Coalition (UCHC) since 1986 (except for two years when he worked with the Detroit Housing Commission). During that time, Ted gained valuable insight into the complexities of public housing management, further strengthening his commitment to ensuring housing stability for Detroit’s most vulnerable residents. Ted has continued to guide the organization through decades of growth and change, all while maintaining its unwavering mission to protect Detroiters from housing insecurity.

Ted’s commitment to housing justice began early in his career, where he worked as an attorney for the Legal Aid and Defender Landlord-Tenant Clinic, advocating for tenants' rights from 1984 to 1985. This hands-on experience honed his legal expertise and reinforced his belief that housing is a basic human right. His passion for justice is deeply rooted in his own experiences growing up in Detroit, and his connection to the city is reflected in his leadership and advocacy.

A proud alumnus of Cass Technical High School, Ted went on to earn both his undergraduate and law degrees from Wayne State University, where he majored in History. He has been a licensed attorney since 1983 and is an active member of the State Bar of Michigan. His legal background has been crucial in shaping UCHC’s housing advocacy and eviction defense efforts, making a real difference in the lives of thousands of Detroit families.

At UCHC, Ted has spearheaded some of the most impactful housing initiatives in the city, leading the organization to become a trusted resource for eviction prevention, tax foreclosure assistance, and housing placement services. His leadership has always centered around the belief that housing is not just a need but a right—one that every person deserves access to, regardless of their circumstances.

Ted’s vision for a more equitable Detroit continues to guide UCHC’s work, and his dedication to advocating for those facing housing instability is as strong as ever. With over 30 years of leadership and a career built on fighting for housing justice, Ted remains a tireless champion for Detroit’s most vulnerable communities.