Community organizations are working together to prevent and end homelessness in our region, with growing success.
But with so much yet to be done, public agencies and nonprofit advocacy groups who want to bring their regional colleagues together to move this important work forward.
On September 10 & 11, the Nebraska-Western Iowa Symposium on Homelessness 2012 will be held at UNO’s Thompson Alumni Center.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, in partnership with VA Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Metro Area Continuum of Care for the Homeless (MACCH), Lincoln Homeless Coalition, and other agencies, are hosting the event.
It is designed for policy makers, executives, and direct service providers.
The workshop offers national speakers and will bring many local, state and federal agencies together to discuss their common challenges and best practices.
Their common goal is to find practical solutions that provide emergency assistance to the homeless, and quickly transition people back into a stable housing situation.
Keynote speakers include Andrea White and Howard Burchman of Housing Innovations, a New York-based organization that advises and advocates on transitional and supportive housing for the homeless.
Burchman co-authored New York State’s plan to end homelessness in ten years; he will present on performance measurement. White’s topic will be “Critical Time Intervention.”
In addition, Lora Routt, Deputy Director of HUD’s Office of Special Needs Assistance Programs will discuss homeless assistance grant programs.
Douglas County Nebraska Commissioner Mary Ann Borgeson will report on the county’s efforts, which have received national attention. In July 2012, the National Alliance to End Homelessness recognized Borgeson and Douglas County with its Public Sector Award.
