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!
February: Advocate!
Want super-quick, super easy? We got you. Fill out this 5-question survey on how you want to see housing resources used inside Columbus.
Yes in God’s Backyard (YIGBY) is a nationwide movement to give nonprofits - like faith groups, human services providers, and educators - the tools needed to help making housing more affordable. It can include zoning flexibilities to build mixed-use spaces to meet multiple community needs, technical assistance programs to build up capacity, or funding to lower housing costs. On February 9th, Columbus City Council is expected to vote on a local YIGBY law proposed by Council President Hardin. And the Ohio Statehouse is currently considering an affordable homeownership program lead by Senator Reynolds. Check them out and get engaged!
Keep your eyes peeled this month for the MUCH anticipated Funding Review Advisory Council (FRAC) recommendations. It’s absolutely clear that the need for housing and human services is growing faster than our resources… as a community, how can we band together to keep ourselves strong? We may soon find out what some of those first steps could be!
February: Donate!
DYK that Habitat for Humanity has one of the best vehicle donation programs in the entire country? If you’ve got a clunker on your hands, check out HFH-MidOhio’s webpage for more info on their Cars for Homes program!
Resiliency Bridge is a local initiative that blends affordable housing, job training, and life coaching to help people get better jobs and escape poverty. In less than a year, the average graduate increases their income by 900% (really!). Give the gift of economic mobility with a donation today.
AHACO is still accepting sponsorships for our YIGBY training event, “From Prayers to Pro Formas”. Reach out today to see how you can help!
Is your hobby adding things to a virtual shopping cart, only to abandon it later? Well, you can click “buy” with these local needs lists, bringing relief to a family in need. Check out the items most needed by YWCA Columbus, Star House, Community Housing Network, Faith Mission, Faith Mission (Fairfield Co.), CHOICES Domestic Violence Shelter, and Huck House.
February: volunteer!
Did you see Central Ohio’s Community Housing Network featured in the Dispatch last month and felt compelled to help? Excellent! You can join them on February 5th to help prepare Welcome Home Kits for 44 new residents moving into Touchstone Field Place. Here’s the interest form to get started.
The Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA) just wrapped up a major new research project, studying the impact of a “shallow rental subsidy” for senior citizens. Among other amazing outcomes, supported households saw a 55% reduction in ER visits! If you’re looking for a low-cost room to rent, and you’re willing to help a senior with some cleaning around the house, check out their Nesterly program for win-win housing ideas!
February: Engage!
Join AHACO’s first ever “Coffee & Whatever” on February 6th at noon at the Light Meeting House. Have a wild idea you want to soundboard? Looking to sound off on a housing pet peeve? Seeking a new nerdy housing friend? Just enjoy espresso and good company? Join AHACO for unstructured fun. No RSVP needed. Conversation is free, but coffee is on your own dime!
Haven’t caught our awesome duplex documentary yet? There’s lots of chances this month with screenings at Data Day and the Driving Park Library!
The push to reign in Wall Street investors’ outsized influence in our housing market is gaining steam, with both the White House and Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno jumping into the debate. Here in Columbus, a new group is lighting up Instagram to hype its February 4th event, “Evict Private Equity”.
