Cities across the country are witnessing the impacts of homelessness in our parks, public spaces, and communities. While the causes of homelessness are complex, park organizations can be a part of the solution by creating safe and welcoming public spaces and partnerships to improve outcomes for the unhoused. While park leaders cannot solve these problems alone, they can forge new partnerships and adopt innovative approaches that make a positive impact.
We started our conversation by exploring recent research on place-based care models, partnerships, and strategies that provide safe parks for all. We then heard about the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District’s homeless outreach program, which builds trust-based relationships with homeless individuals and connects them to essential services.
The rest of the time was spent in conversation, and attendees shared their particular challenges, successes, perspectives, questions, and strategies with their peers!
CONVERSATION STARTERS:
• Helen Beck, PhD Candidate, University of Washington
• Nakasha Shoyinka, Director of Supportive Services, ADID Homeless Outreach, Atlanta Downtown Improvement District (ADID)
MODERATOR:
• Diana Colangelo, Assistant Director of Programs, City Parks Alliance
PEER CONVERSATION:
Connect with your peers to candidly discuss the complex issues facing urban park systems. Actively talk about your real-world challenges and successes, brainstorm fresh ideas, swap resources, and gain insights from practitioners across the country.
NOTES:
Photo credit: Daily Bruin
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