Columbia, Maryland was created with an eye towards intentionally integrating neighborhoods based on race and income. Despite their intent, many of the methods utilized by The Rouse Company were made illegal with the Fair Housing Act, most prominently the practice of "steering" homeowners or renters to certain properties based on race. As these methods have become prohibited, Columbia's communities have begun to self-segregate due to the conscious and subconscious biases of consumers.

The Columbia Housing Center was created to reverse the tide and encourage renters and homebuyers to make choices that will reinvest in Columbia's original vision. Columbia icon Jane Dembner has left a lasting mark on the community she loved and Andy Masters is worthy of carrying that legacy forward.