2009 · Camp Take Notice
Inspired by tent communities in Seattle, Caleb Poirier helps start a self-governed homeless camp in the Ann Arbor area; resident Seth Best coins the name "Camp Take Notice." The camp gives unhoused neighbors safety, dignity, and a voice.
2010 · MISSION is founded
MISSION — the Michigan Itinerant Shelter System, Interdependent Out of Necessity — is founded to provide support services to the camp and connect it to the area's faith community.
2012 · Eviction & resilience
State authorities evict Camp Take Notice from its longtime site. Rather than let the community scatter, MISSION keeps neighbors connected — continuing meals, meetings, and mutual support.
2012–2013 · Houses of hospitality
Inspired by Dorothy Day's houses of hospitality, MISSION creates welcoming spaces to shower, do laundry, share a meal, and belong — small acts that uphold dignity.
2013 · The Purple House
MISSION acquires the "Purple House" — named for its lavender-and-teal paint — thanks to a generous anonymous donation. Set on several acres along Malletts Creek, its welcoming front porch was built by local Presbyterian churches.
2015 · The Jimmy Hill House
Jimmy Hill — once homeless at Camp Take Notice, who got sober, found work, and rose to become MISSION's president and the Purple House's manager — passes away from cancer in June. The Purple House is named the "Jimmy Hill House" in his honor.
A growing vision · Tiny Homes
From early on, MISSION championed a community of tiny homes on its own property — keeping neighbors together rather than isolated. "It's all about community."
2026 · The Tiny House Pilot
That vision takes a major step forward: with new grant support and the city planning process underway, MISSION begins the survey and groundwork to launch a pilot community of tiny homes.
