Talk of the County Podcast | Tackling Housing Insecurity: YWCA and Shelter Board Strategies (Pt. 2)

08/05/24 • 43 min

Reflecting on the projected 68% increase in unsheltered individuals by 2028, what strategic measures should be prioritized to prevent this increase?

In part 2 of our two-part series on housing insecurity, we explore how low vacancy rates and high rent increases exacerbate the problem, and discuss the innovative strategies both organizations employ to tackle the issue.

Kenneth Wilson continues his conversation with guests Elizabeth Brown, President & CEO of the YWCA, and Shannon Isom, President & CEO of the Community Shelter Board.

You'll hear personal anecdotes, from Elizabeth's city council campaign experiences to Shannon's passion for jazz and community-centered philanthropy.

Whether it's about providing permanent supportive housing for women or the need for long-term systemic changes, today's conversation is packed with valuable insights and heartfelt stories.

Key Moments

00:00 Countywide homelessness linked to interconnected community responsibilities.

04:15 Suburbs experiencing homelessness, housing instability for women.

09:49 Philanthropy is essential for community sustainability.

11:36 Stakeholders seek outcomes of 18-month assessment.

17:09 Data shows 68% increase in homelessness.

19:22 Exponential rise in families needing shelter help.

22:35 HUD definitions require chronically homeless individuals with disabilities.

27:30 Pleasant surprise discovering diversity and internal tools.

30:51 CSB is special, surprising, and a gem.

32:36 Tentative date for August; focus on goals.

37:07 County conversation: heavy topics, fun facts.

Top Takeaways

Both guests highlight that homelessness is indeed a significant issue in suburban areas of Franklin County, driven by factors like low vacancy rates and increasing rents.

Fundraising is crucial for the YWCA and Community Shelter Board to continue their vital work in housing, childcare, and social justice, as well as supporting scholarships and other benevolent activities.

Philanthropy plays a pivotal role in filling the gaps where public resources fall short, ensuring the community can address complex societal issues effectively.

Personal sacrifices are made by leaders in public service.

The increasing demand for shelter services over the past 20 years necessitates long-term solutions and sufficient funding, as current resources are inadequate.

YWCA's supportive housing serves women who have experienced chronic homelessness and disabilities, offering stability, security, and tailored support services.

An upcoming summit aims to review and optimize the homelessness system, involving various stakeholders to develop a regional plan for addressing the issue.

Both the YWCA and Community Shelter Board rely heavily on volunteers. Elizabeth Brown and Shannon TL Isom encouraged listeners to get involved through their respective organizations' websites.

Addressing homelessness requires strategic planning and a clear roadmap.

[email protected]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana

License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW

Reflecting on the projected 68% increase in unsheltered individuals by 2028, what strategic measures should be prioritized to prevent this increase?

Kenneth Wilson continues his conversation with guests Elizabeth Brown, President & CEO of the YWCA, and Shannon Isom, President & CEO of the Community Shelter Board.

You'll hear personal anecdotes, from Elizabeth's city council campaign experiences to Shannon's passion for jazz and community-centered philanthropy.

Whether it's about providing permanent supportive housing for women or the need for long-term systemic changes, today's conversation is packed with valuable insights and heartfelt stories.

Key Moments

00:00 Countywide homelessness linked to interconnected community responsibilities.

04:15 Suburbs experiencing homelessness, housing instability for women.

09:49 Philanthropy is essential for community sustainability.

11:36 Stakeholders seek outcomes of 18-month assessment.

17:09 Data shows 68% increase in homelessness.

19:22 Exponential rise in families needing shelter help.

22:35 HUD definitions require chronically homeless individuals with disabilities.

27:30 Pleasant surprise discovering diversity and internal tools.

30:51 CSB is special, surprising, and a gem.

32:36 Tentative date for August; focus on goals.

37:07 County conversation: heavy topics, fun facts.

Top Takeaways

Both guests highlight that homelessness is indeed a significant issue in suburban areas of Franklin County, driven by factors like low vacancy rates and increasing rents.

Philanthropy plays a pivotal role in filling the gaps where public resources fall short, ensuring the community can address complex societal issues effectively.

Personal sacrifices are made by leaders in public service.

The increasing demand for shelter services over the past 20 years necessitates long-term solutions and sufficient funding, as current resources are inadequate.

YWCA's supportive housing serves women who have experienced chronic homelessness and disabilities, offering stability, security, and tailored support services.

An upcoming summit aims to review and optimize the homelessness system, involving various stakeholders to develop a regional plan for addressing the issue.

Both the YWCA and Community Shelter Board rely heavily on volunteers. Elizabeth Brown and Shannon TL Isom encouraged listeners to get involved through their respective organizations' websites.

Addressing homelessness requires strategic planning and a clear roadmap.

[email protected]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana

License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW

Previous Episode

Commissioner John O’Grady Recognized as Health Hero as the BOC Votes to Support African American Wellness Initiatives

Reso. No. 0564-24: Supporting the African American Male Wellness Educational Initiatives & Events

During a July General Session, Resolution No. 564-24 was presented by Damika Withers, Chief Economic Equity and Inclusion Officer for Franklin County. The resolution authorizes a $450,000 grant to the African American Male Wellness Agency (AAMWA) to support their educational and wellness initiatives aimed at improving the health outcomes of African American men in Franklin County.

This clip also features the recognition of Commissioner John O’Grady as a Health Hero by AAMWA, honoring his dedication to promoting health equity and mental wellness.

Subscribe to stay updated on future sessions, initiatives, and all things Franklin County!

Next Episode

Talk of the County Podcast | Fashion Alliance

What steps are crucial to achieving the vision of Columbus becoming the fashion capital of the Midwest?

We have a special guest who is at the forefront of transforming the fashion scene in Franklin County and Columbus. Joining us is Yogi Terrell, CEO of Warhol & Wall St. and Director of the Columbus Fashion Alliance.

We dive into the world of fashion, touching on everything from the latest trends, like biker shorts, to common fashion blunders. Yogi shares his ambitious plans for launching a groundbreaking 43,000-square-foot fashion innovation center, right here in Columbus, and discusses its anticipated impact on our community.

We talk about important topics around diversity, equity, and inclusion in the fashion industry and the misconceptions that sometimes come with these initiatives. Yogi provides valuable insights into how the Columbus Fashion Alliance is supporting emerging designers and entrepreneurs through partnerships, educational programs, and market creation.

Additionally, we touch on fashion's potential to create economic opportunities, the importance of personal expression, and how fashion can serve as a pathway to success for our youth and underserved communities. From reminiscing about past fashion trends to discussing sustainability efforts and the influence of music and art, this episode is a comprehensive look at the evolving fashion landscape in Columbus.

Top Takeaways

There’s a deep dive into the fear and misconceptions around diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, emphasizing that these efforts create more opportunities and benefits for everyone.

The conversation highlights the potential of the fashion industry to boost economic opportunities in Columbus, focusing on small batch production, smart manufacturing, and emerging direct-to-consumer brands.

Fashion is portrayed as a tool for personal expression, identity, and confidence, especially for underserved communities, creating pathways for success and a sense of belonging.

There's an emphasis on sustainability within the fashion industry, including projects aimed at reducing textile waste and attracting eco-conscious companies to create jobs.

Yogi Terrell shares personal stories of how fashion served as a form of protection and pride during his childhood, illustrating the personal and societal impact of fashion.

The cultural significance of fashion, music, and art in communities, and how these elements shape consumer experiences and community identity.

The importance of inclusive leadership is discussed, focusing on allowing others to thrive and combating the fear of others' success as a threat.

The value of creating community centers and unique shopping experiences in Columbus is highlighted, emphasizing lifestyle experiences and localized fashion knowledge sharing.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Original, authentic Franklin County and Columbus winners.

06:06 Partnered with county to aid sewers of color.

09:57 Fashion creates opportunity for youth in community.

13:06 People of color influence fashion and trends.

15:51 Culture's impact on economy and city visibility.

17:10 Columbus fashion business had influential periods.

20:45 Boutiques offering personal, artistic, local brand experience.

26:38 County key to fashion; unity boosts potential.

28:23 Retail, creativity, education, financial support in industry.

31:33 Partnering with legacy brands to support local economy.

35:40 Encouraging youth to become successful entrepreneurs.

38:37 Shift perspective to embrace opportunity in diversity.

42:23 Building culture, fostering connections among creative talent.

45:32 Started Warhol on Wall Street 14 years ago, branding agency specializing in strategy, brand building, storytelling, and experiences.

49:39 Franklin County aims to lead in sustainability.

50:56 Columbus to be Midwest's fashion capital.

56:33 Clum's Fashion Alliance launching an innovation center.

57:41 Conclude with words of your own.

[email protected]

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/tropicana

License code: 6VVAVEFBZTQOL3AW

Franklin County Media - Talk of the County Podcast | Tackling Housing Insecurity: YWCA and Shelter Board Strategies (Pt. 2)

Transcript

Kenneth Wilson [00:00:14]:

Is homelessness a problem in our suburban communities? We have 17 cities, 17 townships and eight villages in Franklin County. I think I got that right. It can be that homelessness is a problem in the county, supports it, which represents every resident every day. And the city of Columbus, what about the other 16 municipalities, 17 townships and eight villages? I'm asking the question, do you all think that homelessness is a problem in our suburban communities?