Across the Bay Area, cities and community-based organizations are facing complex land use challenges, from revitalizing downtowns to expanding housing opportunities to reimagining public spaces. ULI San Francisco’s Technical Assistance Panels (TAPs) offer hands-on, practical support for these partners. But what truly powers this work is you, the professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to help shape stronger, more resilient communities.

What Is a TAP?

A Technical Assistance Panel brings together a multidisciplinary team of ULI members for a concentrated, two-day engagement with a final presentation to the city. Working directly with local jurisdictions and stakeholders, panelists provide independent, expert guidance on a specific land use or development questions. TAPs are fast-paced, collaborative, and deeply impactful for both the communities we serve and for the professionals who participate.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering as a TAP panelist is more than donating time. It’s an opportunity to:

1. Apply Your Skills to Meaningful Local Challenges

Planners, developers, designers, architects, community organizers, housing experts, and more bring real-world knowledge to communities that need help evaluating options, envisioning solutions, and making informed decisions.

2. Learn from a Multidisciplinary Team

TAPs assemble experts across sectors. Panelists often say they walk away with new perspectives, relationships, and insights that influence their work long after the TAP concludes.

3. Support Equitable and Community-Centered Solutions

TAPs often focus on issues like affordable housing, small business corridors, infrastructure, and neighborhood revitalization, all areas where your expertise can directly support community goals.

4. Strengthen Your Professional Network

You’ll collaborate closely with mission-driven peers across the region, forming connections that last well beyond the project.

5. Give Back in a Way That Has Lasting Impact

The guidance provided in a TAP often shapes policy discussions, long-range plans, and development strategies. Volunteers can see the tangible influence of their contributions.

How It Works

Each TAP is different in scope. Panelists are selected based on the needs of each TAP. By submitting an application now, you’ll be added to our roster of volunteer experts. While you may not be called immediately, your application helps us match you with the right project when the time comes.

Who Should Apply?

We welcome ULI members with 10+ years of professional expertise in:

• Land use planning & urban design
• Real estate development
• Housing policy & finance
• Transportation & mobility
• Architecture & landscape architecture
• Community development
• Economic development
• Environmental resilience
• Public sector leadership
• And other related fields

If you’re passionate about using your skills to help communities make informed, forward-thinking decisions, you’re a perfect fit.

👉 Apply today to join our roster of volunteer panelists.