HIP Housing’s First Executive Director & Co-Founder

Everett pioneered a first-of-its kind nonprofit housing model for San Mateo County

HIP Housing, formerly known as Human Investment Project, Inc., mourns the loss of Lois Almen Everett, one of its founders and its dynamic first executive director. Lois passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, at the age of 93, surrounded by her loved ones.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that HIP Housing would not exist without the extraordinary vision and actions of Lois.

In August of 1972, Lois helped to launch Human Investment Project with a small grant and a desk and phone provided by a savings bank in San Mateo. Later known as HIP Housing, Lois was named Executive Director of HIP Housing in 1979. Under her leadership the Home Sharing and Self Sufficiency for Families programs were launched, and in 1989, HIP Housing’s built its first “Share Home”.

Lois served as the first woman president of the National Rehabilitation Association of San Mateo County and helped establish the California Homesharing Association. She’s been recognized for her achievements by the City of San Mateo, and Soroptimists International, and is listed in Who’s Who in America. She’s been acknowledged by Congresswoman Jackie Speier and Congresswoman Anna Eshoo for Outstanding Service. Lois was also a talented entertainer who loved the theater and in 1990, she was inducted into the San Mateo County Women’s Hall of Fame.

Lois was one of a kind. She will always be remembered for her youthful energy, her whimsical spirit, her business sense, her big laugh, and most of all, her ability to connect everything and everyone with good humor and genuine warmth.

She will be greatly missed and HIP Housing is very proud to be a part of her accomplishments and to carry on her enduring legacy.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family asks that donations in Lois’ honor be made to HIP Housing or to your charity of choice.