Housing Insecurity Workshops
Homeless 101: Understanding Homelessness
This interactive workshop offers a comprehensive introduction to the realities of homelessness. Through a variety of engaging methods, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, explore ways to respond with compassion, and examine the biblical foundation for action.
Workshop Description:
Homeless 101 provides a safe and informative space to explore the complex issue of homelessness, participants will:
1
Consider the lived reality of being homeless
We'll delve into the daily struggles and systemic barriers faced by those without stable housing.
2
Hear narratives from those with lived experience
We'll incorporate stories and testimonies from individuals who have been or are currently experiencing homelessness.
3
Discuss ways to respond
We'll explore practical and compassionate ways to support individuals experiencing homelessness and contribute to solutions.
4
Examine the biblical foundation for action
We'll explore relevant scriptures and theological principles that guide a faith-based response to homelessness.
Workshop Format:
This workshop, which is customizable for 1 to 3 hours, utilizes a variety of interactive learning methods including:
Teaching
Providing foundational information about homelessness, its causes, and its impact.
Games
Engaging activities
to promote understanding and empathy.
Discussion
Facilitated conversations to explore personal perspectives and challenge assumptions.
Videos
Sharing powerful stories and insights from individuals with lived experience.
And More...
Incorporating other creative methods to enhance learning and engagement.
Key Takeaway:
Homeless 101 will equip participants with a deeper understanding of homelessness, fostering compassion, inspiring action, and grounding their response in a strong biblical framework. Participants will leave with practical tools and a renewed sense of purpose to address this critical issue within their communities
Understanding Homelessness: A Journey
of Compassion and Storytelling
This workshop offers a unique approach to understanding homelessness through the power of storytelling. We believe that everyone has a story to tell about their perceptions and experiences with homelessness, even if they haven't personally experienced it. Whether it's a fleeting interaction on a city street or news reports, we all form narratives about this complex issue.
Workshop Description:
This interactive workshop explores how our personal narratives shape our understanding of homelessness.
We'll examine how assumptions and missing information can lead to incomplete and often stigmatized views. Through guided discussions and storytelling exercises, participants will:
1
Deconstruct their existing "homelessness stories"
We'll explore the origins of our perceptions and identify potential biases.
2
Recognize the power of narrative
We will learn how personal stories, even brief encounters, influence our understanding and actions.
3
Bridge the gap between assumptions and reality
We will challenge our preconceptions and explore the complex factors contributing to homelessness, including addiction, mental illness, and the lack of affordable housing.
4
Cultivate compassion and empathy
We will work together to break down stigma and foster a deeper understanding of the human experience of homelessness.
5
Explore a faith-based response
We will discuss how our Christian faith calls us to respond with compassion and action to those experiencing homelessness.
Workshop Format:
This workshop, which is customizable for 1 to 3 hours, utilizes a variety of interactive learning methods including:
Introduction
Setting the stage for storytelling and exploring initial perceptions of homelessness.
Storytelling Exercise
Guided activity where participants share and reflect on their personal "homelessness stories".
Discussion & Reflection
Analyzing the stories, identifying common themes, and challenging assumptions. Exploring the root causes of homelessness and the role of faith in addressing this issue.
Action Planning
Brainstorming ways to put compassion into action and support organizations working to combat homelessness.
Key Takeaway:
This workshop will equip participants with a new lens through which to view homelessness, fostering compassion, understanding, and a desire to make a difference. We will emphasize that our understanding
of homelessness is a lifelong journey, constantly evolving as we encounter new stories and deepen our knowledge.