The Platform

The Platform is an innovative leadership course designed to give our residents the knowledge and confidence needed to advocate for the housing issues they care about. It helps local neighbors and leaders find their voice, speak with conviction in support of the housing issues they care about, and stand up against myths that are holding us back. Learn more and enroll

The Platform is a nine-month commitment for up to ten participants each year. The only prerequisites are a passion to serve and a desire to advance housing in our community. Central Ohio candidates will likely come from all different professional and personal backgrounds, and represent many ages, cultures, and neighborhoods.

This program is free to all attendees and all materials are provided. Access to a personal computer and reliable transportation is recommended. Comfort with Zoom, Google tools, and at least a high school level of education will also help participants maximize the experience.

The curriculum requires one in-person and one online meeting each month, light homework, and an opening and closing reception. During meetings you will meet and learn from housing leaders, policymakers, and other experts who can help you amplify your impact. The next cohort will begin accepting applications in early winter 2025, with kick-off expected in early 2026.

When You’re ready to Commit to impact

A sample of programs is below:

  • Month One: Kick-Off Mixer & Advocate Networking

  • Month Two: Defining Affordability & Your Advocacy Goals

  • Month Three: Making the Case with Compelling Public Testimony

  • Month Four: Persuasive Writing for Op-Eds and Letters to the Editor

  • Month Five: Armed with Facts: Finding Compelling Housing Data

  • Month Six: Design Bootcamp: Making Advocacy Beautiful with Canva

  • Month Seven: Getting in the Room: Preparing for Power Meetings

  • Month Eight: Fundraising for Causes You Care About

  • Month Nine: Graduation Celebration

Ready to Join?!

The next cohort will begin accepting applications in early winter 2025, with kick-off expected in early 2026. Watch this space for more information or shoot us an email through the Contact Us page to make sure you’re on the early notice list!