How You Can Help Today!
Anthropologist Margaret Mead once said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has!” In that spirit, AHACO creates a monthly quick guide to help neighbors get involved in housing advocacy… no experience needed! We carefully select a variety of trending events and topics so that there’s a little something for everyone. It’s a great way to grab a friend and change our little part of the world!
May: Advocate!
Remember the 21st Century Road to Housing Act? The largest and arguably most impactful piece of housing legislation in our lifetimes that passed the U.S. Senate with 89-1? The one Ohio’s own Senator Bernie Marino helped negotiation a compromise on? Well, it seems stuck in the House of Representatives. If you’ve got an opinion, speak your peace!
The National Low Income Housing Coalition is looking for organizations to sign onto it’s Federal Appropriations Letter, opposing cuts to housing programs. Or check out this one from CLASP on rule limits to housing support programs.
Or check out Trans Equality’s campaign to protect the Equal Access Rule, protecting those who seek help escaping homelessness.
Spring is here, and it’s a great time for a backyard barbeque! If you’re willing to invite a few friends over to chat about how your view the state of housing and where we should go next, we’d love to pick up the hotdogs and join for an old school House Party! Be a convener and leader, and let’s get the ball rolling on change!
May: Donate!
Community Housing Network - a nonprofit that provides supportive housing to people escaping homelessness - has a shot at a $50,000 matching grant from Rockford Construction. Help them meet the goal with a gift today!
Looking for a little fun with your gift? This year, Creative Housing | Creative Restoration, a group that offers safe, accessible, and affordable housing for people with disabilities, is turning 35 years old! Help the residents celebrate with a night out at Dave & Busters. Half of all “Power Card” purchases go to supporting the agency’s mission!
Star House is hosting a once-in-a-generation chance to invest in our youth with their brand new Opportunity Fund.
May: volunteer!
Homeport is the region’s largest Community Development Corporation, providing dignified and affordable housing to thousands in our region. Help them distribute produce to seniors, families, and youth in need of a healthy meal this month.
May: Engage!
Don’t miss our Coffee & Whatever, the monthly housing hang. On Friday, May 1st we’ll be at Restoration Roastery right across from the Ohio Statehouse.
The countdown is officially on for Huckleberry House’s annual Sleep Out, a fantastic and engaging way to help end youth homelessness. Join them under the stars on May 29th!
The Franklin County Auditor’s office is hosting free Homestead Exemption Application Clinics throughout the summer to help keep property tax rates down for senior and disabled residents. The next one is May 22nd.
Get tickets to the Columbus Urban League in celebrating Central Ohio’s women leaders. The annual HERstory Makers will be hosted at the Columbus Museum of Art on May 14th. While you’re there, give a kudos to AHACO’s own Dr. Shon Burch, Executive Director of Resident Resources Network, a nominated Mover & Shaker!
