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!
October: Advocate!
This is the last month to share your comments on Zone In, the second phase of the City of Columbus’ effort to modernize it’s zoning code. This round, they’re focused on business corridors. These are great spaces to advance “Live Work Play” models that bring jobs, housing, and culture together; “Reinvent the Strip” concepts that revitalize old commercial spaces into mixed use corridors; and “Yes in God’s Backyard” zoning that allows nonprofit and faith-based landowners to build housing for their clients and congregations. Visit the Gallery, comment on the maps, or join the Reddit Ask Me Anything on October 6th for ways to make your voice heard!
The Opportunity Starts at Home campaign is collecting support letters for the “Family Stability & Opportunity Vouchers Act,” which would provide housing supports to 250k families with young children in neighborhoods with high performing schools to help break the cycle of poverty. They’re also collecting letters to support the “Eviction Prevention Act,” which would improve data collection and reduce preventable evictions.
Or sign onto a national letter asking the OCC and FDIC to slow down a massive, unstudied overhaul of the Community Reinvestment Act threatens to reduce funding for affordable housing and cut philanthropic contributions to nonprofits serving on housing’s front lines.
October: Engage!
This month’s Coffee & Whatever is at Stafs in German Village, we’ll meet up in the back room to share all the good housing gossip!
October is the season for housing fundraisers, and we’ve got a great line up this year. Check out YWCA Columbus’ 140th Anniversary Gala, Community Housing Network’s Celebrate the Resilient, Homeport’s Voice & Vision, and IMPACT Community Action’s Ripples of Hope.
On October 8th, Families Flourish is hosting author Lashawn Harris at the Kitchen to discuss her book “Tell Her Story”.
If you’re looking for discount tickets to Housing Forward Columbus on October 23rd, let us know. As a speaker at the event, AHACO got a small stash of coupons!
What does it mean to be ALICE (Asset Limited Income Constrained? Join Fairfield County’s United Way for The Missing Middle: Hidden in Plain Sight event on October 23 to learn more.
For a bigger impact, consider registering for the YWCA’s Leadership for Social Change Program, an 11-month learning experience, emerging leaders.
October: volunteer!
CHN develops and manages affordable permanent supportive housing and provide services to people experiencing homelessness, mental illness, substance use disorders, and other trauma-related issues. And there are so many meaningful ways to volunteer with CHN to help build stronger, more resilient communities. From hosting food or supply drives and packing Welcome Home Kits to breathing new life into a community room there’s a way to give back that will feel meaningful for anyone. Check out their volunteering page to learn more.
Got a skill or an idea that you think needs to be shared? The 2027 Housing Ohio Conference is now accepting workshop proposals. This is a great chance to educate others and use your skills to benefit the community!
October: Donate!
Delaware County Housing Alliance is hosting another month of Meaningful Movies at the historic Strand Theater. This year they will feature an Oscar Winner, a gut-buster, a classic, and a documentary to continue the conversation on safe, affordable housing for all. Sponsorships are now available, learn more online.
Motherful Village is having a ribbon-cutting celebration and is seeking sponsorship to help fulfil their vision for this vibrant community. Learn more about tiers in this download.
