EBHO’s Ethical AI Framework

Introduction

East Bay Housing Organizations (EBHO) is dedicated to the belief that everyone should have a safe, stable, and affordable home, and that housing justice is fundamental to racial, economic, and social equity. As we explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into our advocacy, community organizing, research, operations, and member engagement, we recognize both the opportunities and responsibilities that accompany this technology.

This framework outlines guiding principles for EBHO’s ethical and responsible use of AI across all areas of our work, not just fundraising. It is based on the Fundraising.AI Ethical AI Framework and adapted to reflect EBHO’s unique mission, vision, and commitment to justice and equity.

Core Principles

Privacy and Security

We are committed to protecting the privacy, safety, and dignity of our members, residents, partners, and staff. Any AI-enabled tools or systems will:

  • Safeguard sensitive personal, demographic, and housing data.
  • Ensure consent is clearly obtained and respected.
  • Be designed with strong data security protocols.
  • Limit data collection to only what is necessary for our mission.

2. Data Ethics

We will collect, analyze, and use data ethically by:

  • Ensuring transparency in how data is obtained and applied.
  • Valuing lived experiences and community-based knowledge alongside quantitative data.
  • Avoiding exploitation or harm through algorithmic decisions.

3. Inclusiveness and Equity

AI use at EBHO will advance—not hinder—our work for equity by:

  • Proactively identifying and addressing systemic biases in AI tools.
  • Prioritizing input from historically marginalized communities in AI decisions.
  • Designing and evaluating AI systems with an intersectional justice lens.

4. Accountability

EBHO assumes full responsibility for the consequences of the AI technologies its staff or board uses or develops in their EBHO capacity. To uphold this:

  • We will regularly assess outcomes to ensure alignment with our values.
  • Decision-making supported by AI will remain human-guided.
  • Mechanisms will be in place for questioning, appealing, and correcting AI-driven actions or outputs.

5. Transparency and Explainability

To build trust, EBHO will:

  • Use discretion to disclose when AI is used in communications, services, or decision processes.
  • Ensure staff, board, and community members can understand how AI tools function.
  • Share clearly when automated processes influence recommendations, reporting, or resource distribution.
  • Avoid using AI art/design work
  • Avoid using AI to pull from copyrighted or privileged materials

6. Continuous Learning

We commit to:

  • Staying informed on emerging trends and ethical considerations in AI.
  • Building internal knowledge around responsible AI.
  • Investing in staff training to ensure thoughtful and informed implementation.

7. Collaboration and Community Engagement

AI should support—not replace—the grassroots power of our members. EBHO will: 

  • Involve community members in shaping how AI is used.
  • Foster dialogue with peer organizations and tech justice advocates.
  • Share learnings and tools with the broader housing and justice movement.

8. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

We will:

  • Stay informed about relevant AI legislation and best practices.
  • Comply with all applicable data protection and technology governance laws.
  • Work with partners and experts to ensure legal due diligence.

9. Social Impact and Alignment with Mission

Any AI use must:

  • Deepen our ability to mobilize, educate, and advocate for affordable housing.
  • Contribute to our vision of a racially and economically just East Bay.
  • Avoid perpetuating surveillance, criminalization, or displacement.

10. Sustainability

We recognize that AI development and deployment has environmental impacts. EBHO will:

  • Favor energy-efficient, responsible AI technologies.
  • Consider sustainability as a factor when selecting or building tools.
  • Advocate for digital practices that support a healthy environment and resilient communities.

Implementation and Oversight

  • This framework will be reviewed every 12 months by a working group that includes staff, board members, and community advisors.
  • All AI-related projects must be evaluated for adherence to this framework.
  • Feedback from stakeholders, including tenants and members, will be solicited and valued.

Conclusion

By adopting this Ethical AI Framework, EBHO commits to the responsible, transparent, and values-driven use of artificial intelligence. We aim to ensure that technological innovation empowers communities, furthers justice, and enhances—not replaces—the human relationships and leadership at the heart of our work.

Approved by: EBHO Board of Directors and All Staff
Date: 09/03/2025
Contact: staff@ebho.org