A safe place to sleep is one key element in assisting people experiencing homelessness, even if that space is outside. The leadership team from Keys to Change discusses the Safe Outdoor Space program and how providing food, showers, and security can help turn lives around.

The McQuaid Mission Segment is at timestamp: 42:10-58:03

Funds from the American Rescue Plan made available following the COVID-19 pandemic are running out. Keys to Change CEO Amy Schwabenlender and Director of Programs Richard Crews are joined by Nathan Smith, CEO of Central AZ Shelter Services (CASS), to discuss the looming financial cliff already forcing cutbacks.

The McQuaid Mission Segment is at timestamp: 3:38-16:59

Bonus Keys to Change content at timestamp: 17:02-19:35

Every organization dedicated to addressing homelessness has data. But, what should they do with it? Brian Gruters, Regional Homelessness Program Manager for the Maricopa Association of Governments joined Keys to Change CEO Amy Schwabenlender and Director of Programs Richard Crews for a discussion about why housing needs to be considered a human right and how every organization can provide a piece of the solution.

The McQuaid Mission Segment is ‘Everybody brings their puzzle piece’ to solving homelessness

Watch the entire Episode 1 on STN.

McQuaid Mission series producers Jackson Fonder, CEO of UMOM, and Amy Schwabenlender, CEO of Keys to Change, sat down to talk about the evolution of their respective leadership roles and how they manage to maintain their passion for what they are doing, especially when times are tough.

The McQuaid Mission Segment is at timestamp: 40:54-56:32

Watch the entire Episode 10 on STN.

Leaders from UMOM New Day Centers, Keys to Change and Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce came together for a special crossover segment that combined two STN flagship series, Community Collaborative and McQuaid Mission. The group discussed some reasons behind the significant racial disparities among Arizona’s homeless population and examined possible solutions to the problem.

The McQuaid Mission Segment is at time stamp: 6:53 – 24:34

Watch the entire Episode 9 on STN.

The goal of UMOM New Day Centers is to make homelessness infrequent and non-recurring. In 2023, UMOM served over 600 families experiencing homelessness, 80% of those families transitioned to permanent housing with the help of their short-term shelter program. UMOM’s leadership team joined the segment to dive into the success of their short-term shelter program.

The McQuaid Mission Segment is “Innovative short-term shelter approach shows signs of success at UMOM”

Watch the entire Episode 8 on STN.

The regional outreach team at Keys to Change is one of their main boots-on-the-ground teams working to help the unsheltered population find safe and stable housing. Their main objective is to use the preventative means available to shorten the amount of time people are living unhoused and find permanent housing.

The McQuaid Mission Segments:

“Hit the streets with Keys to Change Outreach Team”

“10-year partnership between Delta Dental Foundation of Arizona and St. Vincent de Paul”

Watch the entire Episode 7 on STN.

Amy Schwabenlender, CEO at Keys to Change, provides her takeaways from a recent conference in San Francisco focused on solutions for ending unsheltered homelessness. She appreciated the greater focus on the voice and action of people with lived experience. Lifting these voices is very important and powerful. Amy also discusses the importance of being charity-minded and justice-minded as we continue the conversation of ending homelessness.

The McQuaid Mission Segment is at timestamp: 43:15 – 51:22

Bonus Keys to Change content “SOAR helps navigate tedious Social Security application process”

Watch the entire Episode 6 on STN.

Keys to Change CEO, Amy Schwabenlender, delves into the reasons behind their rebrand. Schwabenlender, along with Richard Crews, program director at Keys to Change, and Letticia Brown-Gambino, executive director at the Key Campus, discussed how the rebranding of the Human Services Campus will help make a broader impact in the fight against homelessness.

Also, joining the panel is the CEO at UMOM Jackson Fonder. He shares exciting news regarding a significant influx of money from the state that will be used to address Arizona’s growing homelessness problem. Fonder elaborates on how Keys to Change rebranding will help UMOM better serve the increasing numbers of families coming to their Phoenix campus.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “Why a major player in fighting homelessness in Phoenix changed its name”

Watch the entire Episode 5 on STN.

Since the pandemic, 30% of families on UMOM New Day Center’s waitlist have five or more members. This trend is growing as the number of evictions increases across the valley, forcing more families into homelessness.

UMOM New Day Center’s CEO, Jackson Fonder, and Amy Schwabenlender, CEO of the Human Services Campus, are joined by Mila Valle, Chief Programs Officer at UMOM, and Monique Lopez, COO at UMOM, to discuss how their organization is addressing the needs of the growing number of large families on UMOM New Day Center’s waitlist.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “UMOM takes big steps to address large-family homelessness”

Watch the entire Episode 4 on STN.

Affordable housing for seniors is a growing problem across the state. In McQuaid Mission, Amy Schwabenlender, CEO of Keys to Change, and Jackson Fonder, CEO of UMOM New Day Centers, welcome Matt Kelly, Lead Housing Liaison at Mercy Care, Lauren Lauder, Deputy CEO for Spectrum Healthcare, and Shelly Marquez, President Mountain Plains at Mercy Housing.

The group delves into why more seniors are becoming homeless and explores a new three-year partnership between Mercy Care and Mercy Housing that aims to ensure seniors have safe and affordable housing.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “Using data-driven decisions to address senior homelessness”

Watch the entire Episode 3 on STN.

AZ Housing Coalition joined McQuaid Mission to discuss how decades-old land ordinances are preventing developers from building affordable housing in the Phoenix metro area. Nicole Newhouse, Executive Director of Arizona Housing Coalition, and Luis Cordova, Senior VP and COO at Rounds Consulting Group, examine the ways their organizations work to change local laws to create equitable housing for everyone in the state.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “Addressing major barriers in combating chronic homelessness”

Watch the entire Episode 2 on STN.

The season two premiere wrapped up with a very important look at the impact of flex funding on the effort to address the housing crisis in the Valley. McQuaid Mission co-producers and hosts, Amy Schwabenlender, CEO of Keys to Change and UMOM CEO Jackson Fonder were joined by Richard Crews and Johnny Furtado from Keys to Change to discuss disturbing data when it comes to the homelessness crisis and the best ways to help people stay in their homes or move from shelters back into housing.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “How flex funding, diversion and prevention are being used to address systemic homelessness”

Watch the entire Episode 1 on STN.

The conversation about workforce development continued as UMOM’s Chief Program Officer Mila Valle and Workforce Development Manager Fernandez Bjork joined Human Services Campus CEO Amy Schwabenlender for a McQuaid Mission action panel. They talked about how workforce development goes beyond job training and why it is critical for prospective employers to participate in the process.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “UMOM’s workforce development program inspires hope”

Watch the entire Episode 10 on STN.

After a season spent looking at the growing issue of homelessness in the Valley of the Sun, this month’s McQuaid Mission took a look at the numbers, the progress made, and the work left to do to ensure that available resources are being used the right way.

The McQuaid Mission: “Prevention, employment are key in addressing systemic homelessness”

Watch the entire Episode 9 on STN.

For the May installment of the McQuaid Mission, CEOs Amy Schwabenlender from the Human Services Campus and Jackson Fonder from UMOM were joined on stage by UMOM Chief Strategy Officer Monique Lopez and UMOM Homegrown Training Coordinator Chef Steven Wimbley. The group talked about the impact sustained streams of revenue can have on outreach programs and ways leaders can search for funding that they may not have considered.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “How UMOM created a nontraditional revenue source with Helpings Cafe”

Watch the entire Episode 8 on STN.

Our April episode takes a look at utilizing the specific strengths of organizations dedicated to solving systemic issues in the Valley, how a credit union is helping nonprofits survive and what motivates leaders to lead.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “Building consensus, teaming up are key to problem solving”

Watch the entire Episode 7 on STN.

Our March episode tackles funding challenges, the trend of chronic absenteeism, a looming financial cliff, and the health of Arizona’s water supply.

Profiles in Leadership: Amy Schwabenlender, Executive Director, Human Services Campus

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “Loss of COVID-era funding looms large for nonprofits”

Watch the entire Episode 6 on STN.

The first episode of 2023 dives into creating inclusive economies, teens and the great outdoors, a big boost to the effort to end homelessness, and reducing food waste at the Super Bowl and WM Open

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “HSC looks for ways to dole out $10 million grant”

Watch the entire Episode 5 on STN.

In the final episode of 2022, the STN team addresses progress in diversion, equity and inclusion, teens and seeking professional care, housing supply and demand, and leaving things better than you found them.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “Waitlist for shelter space is long and getting longer”

Watch the entire Episode 4 on STN.

Is homelessness in our community something we can solve? The McQuaid Mission panel featured Amy Schwabenlender, Human Services Campus Executive Director Jackson Fonder, UMOM CEO, Letticia Brown-Gambino, UMOM Chief Program Officer and Mike Shore, HOM, Inc CEO. The group shared evidence that some progress is being made and the actionable items they see continuing to make a difference.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “Is homelessness in Phoenix a crisis that can be solved?”

Watch the entire Episode 3 on STN.

Amy Schwabenlender and Jackson Fonder are joined by Human Services Program Director Richard Crews for a discussion focused on diversion and prevention as ways to help reduce the strain of housing challenges on both those who need assistance and the systems in place to help them.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: “Easing strain on the shelter system with diversion and prevention”

Watch the entire Episode 2 on STN.

The first McQuaid Mission segment of the new season featured a discussion about homelessness and affordable housing in the valley with Human Services Campus Executive Director Amy Schwabenlender and Jackson Fonder, the CEO at UMOM. They discussed the numbers of unsheltered people living on the streets of Phoenix, the growing waitlist for services for families experiencing housing issues and how a new product called “Sprung Structures” could provide viable solutions.

Watch the entire Episode 1 on STN.

The McQuaid Mission Segment: Jump to 29:11.

Profiles in Leadership: Richard Crews, Program Director, Human Services Campus

According to an ASU study, nearly 50% of young adults experiencing homelessness identified as LGBTQ – and the average age of their first homeless experience was at 17 years of age. Of those who participated in the survey, about 40% said they had experienced exploitation in the form of labor or sex trafficking. We’ll be joined live in-studio by Dominique Roe-Sepowitz, Associate Professor at ASU’s School of Social Work for a closer look at this troubling report.

• Rob Podlogar
  Chief Community Development and Engagement Officer, Valley of the Sun United Way
• Tomas Leon
  President, Equality Health Foundation
• Dominique Roe-Sepowitz
  Associate Professor, ASU School of Social Work

Watch Episode 31 now on STN.

Leaders in the homeless and affordable housing space rally together to share stories of recent solutions that have had significant impact in their communities.

• Paul Mulligan
  Chief Executive Officer, Catholic Charities
• Marcus Lang
  Business Development Marketing Manager, Stardust
• Trevor Southwick
  Supportive Housing Manager, Arizona Housing, Inc.

Watch Episode 30 now on STN.

The latest point in time count reveals a 35% increase in the region’s homeless population with over 5,000 individuals living unsheltered. In this episode, we rally community leaders to talk solutions in the specific areas of prevention, services, and housing.

• Kim McWaters
  President and Chief Executive Officer, Fresh Start Women’s Foundation
• Dr. Meka Allen
  Director of Social Work, Fresh Start Women’s Foundation
• Rob Podlogar
  Chief Community Development and Engagement Officer, Valley of the Sun United Way
• Paul Mulligan
  Chief Executive Officer, Catholic Charities
• Suzanne Pfister
  President and Chief Executive Officer, Vitalyst Health Foundation

Watch Episode 29 now on STN.

We’ll take a closer look at fresh solutions aimed at keeping our seniors housed. Meet a trio of Valley leaders behind a new plan centered around “home sharing.” Plus, AZ Senate Bill 1581 is making headlines – it would allow COVID-19 relief funds to be used for sanctioned homeless encampment areas. Jessica Boehm, reporter for The Arizona Republic, joins us live in studio to break down the proposal.

• Jessica Boehm
  Housing Insecurity Reporter, Arizona Republic
• Ed Zuercher
  Valley of the Sun United Way
• Rob Podlogar
  Chief Community Development and Engagement Officer, Valley of the Sun United Way
• Deborah Arteaga
  Chief Executive Officer, Tempe Community Action Agency
• Deborah Schaus
  Aster Aging
• Trinity Donovan
  CEO, AZCEND

Watch Episode 28 now on STN.

According to a recent ASU study, nearly 50% of young adults experiencing homelessness identified as LGBTQ – and the average age of their first homeless experience was at 17 years of age. We’ll be joined live in studio by Nate Rhoton, Executive Director at one-n-ten, for a look at what’s being done to help and equip our young people.

Also, Jayson Matthews and Gilbert Arvizu from the Valley Of The Sun United Way will join us in studio for a conversation on healthcare and homelessness.

• Nate Rhoton
  Executive Director, one-n-ten
• Jayson Matthews
  Vice President of Community Development, Valley of the Sun United Way
• Gilbert Arvizu
  Community Development and Engagement Director, Valley of the Sun United Way

Watch Episode 27 now on STN.

The Valley’s real estate and rental markets are exploding; rents continue to increase at a rapid pace, pricing many individuals and families out. In this episode, we will explore the “Shared Housing Initiative” and how it may provide much-needed help to those experiencing homelessness. Rob Podlogar, Chief Community Development and Engagement Officer from Valley Of The Sun United Way, will also join us on the main stage for a discussion on action underway to combat senior hunger.

• Rob Podlogar
  Chief Community Development & Engagement Officer, Valley Of The Sun United Way
• Krickette Wetherington
  Project Manager, ASU Action Nexus
• Rachel Milne
  Assistant Director, Housing and Community Development at Maricopa County

Watch Episode 26 now on STN.

We shine a light on parents and little ones experiencing homelessness. UMOM is on the frontlines as the coordinated entry point for families needing help. Jackson Fonder, CEO of UMOM, will join us live in-studio to talk about the challenges and actions underway to assist families in need. Carla Vargas Jasa, President and CEO from Valley Of The Sun United Way, will also join us on the main stage for a discussion on their new push to create ‘mighty change’ in our community.

• Jackson Fonder
  CEO of UMOM
• Carla Vargas Jasa
  President and CEO, Valley Of The Sun United Way
• Rob Podlogar
  Chief Community Development & Engagement Officer, Valley Of The Sun United Way

Watch Episode 25 now on STN.

We take an inside look at the Arizona Housing Fund. Founder Howard Epstein joins us live in studio for this conversation. See how local business leaders are paving the way when it comes to building more affordable supportive housing in our state.

• Shana Ellis
  Executive Director, ASU Action Nexus
• Howard Epstein
  Founder, Arizona Housing Fund
• John Kobierowski
  President & CEO, ABI Multifamily

Watch Episode 24 now on STN.

We take an inside look at the important work of Native American Connections. President and CEO Dede Yazzie Devine joins us live in studio to discuss how they help provide safe and affordable housing for our Native communities and beyond. Native American Fatherhood and Families Association President Al Pooley will also join us to explore the importance of the family unit when it comes to getting people off the streets.

• Dede Yazzie Devine
  President and CEO, Native American Connections
• Al Pooley
  Founder and President, Native American Fatherhood and Families Association (NAFFA)

Watch Episode 23 now on STN.

What is being done to keep our seniors safe, housed and off the streets?

Older adults are reported to be the fastest-growing homeless population in the Phoenix area. We’ll look at the systems in place to help and discuss the major triggers that can play a role in leading to senior homelessness.

In the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters, the panel discusses the myth that people tend to help those experiencing homelessness more this time of year because that’s when the need is real.

• Wendy Johnson
  Executive Director, Justa Center
• Nathan Smith
  Chief Program Officer, Phoenix Rescue Mission
• Krickette Wetherington
  Project Manager, ASU Action Nexus

Watch Episode 22 now on STN.

The season of giving is here – that time of year when many open their wallets to donate to valuable causes and charities. But while our hearts might be in the right place, does our approach need to change? We look at the power of the “Healthy Giving” concept and hear why it’s changing the way some plan to give this holiday season.

Plus, for many, a pet is considered a beloved member of the family. But for those experiencing homelessness or on the brink, caring for that animal can lead to some tough decisions. We’ll go inside one local operation helping people and pets in crisis.

In the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters, Amy Schwabenlender and the panel discuss the myth that the homeless are not part of our local community.

• Jerome Parker
  Leader, Healthy Giving Council
  https://www.givesmartaz.org/
• Shana Ellis
  Executive Director, ASU Action Nexus

Watch Episode 21 now on STN.

We are seeing record funding pour into our community from the American Rescue Plan and recent grants provided by the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust. How do we harness the momentum of the moment to create sustainable change? Former UMOM CEO and owner of Newsom Nonprofit Consulting Darlene Newsom and HSC Director of Programs Richard Crews will join us live in studio.

In the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters, Amy Schwabenlender and the panel discuss the myth that it costs taxpayers more money to house people experiencing homelessness than if they were to remain homeless.

• Darlene Newsom
  Owner, Newsom Nonprofit Consulting
• Richard Crews
  Director of Programs, Human Services Campus
• Shana Ellis
  Executive Director, ASU Action Nexus

Watch Episode 20 now on STN.

Last month, the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust awarded $123 million in surprise grants to 71 nonprofit organizations. This marked the largest single-day grant initiative in Arizona’s history. We will be joined live in studio by Piper Trust President & CEO Mary Jane Rynd and Wildfire Executive Director Cynthia Zwick for a look at the process and power of philanthropy.

Plus, we will meet Shante Saulsberry, founder and CEO of Janice’s Women’s Center, and hear how a chance encounter at a bus stop set her on a new course to help women impacted by domestic violence.

In the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters, Amy Schwabenlender and the panel discuss the myth that many homeless people prefer the freedom of life on the streets to staying in the shelter.

• Mary Jane Rynd
  President & CEO, Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust
• Cynthia Zwick
  Executive Director, Wildfire
• Shana Ellis
  Executive Director, ASU Action Nexus

Watch Episode 19 now on STN.

For those experiencing homelessness, getting into a safe place can be a scary and daunting journey. In this episode, we look at the process of “Rapid Rehousing” to see what’s working and what obstacles still remain. In a booming housing market, landlords play a critical role in these programs, so what steps are being taken to get them on board?

In the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters, Amy Schwabenlender and the panel discuss the myth that more services for the homeless will attract more homeless to our community.

• Angel Ocegueda
  Case Manager Supervisor, A New Leaf
• Pam Bridge
  Director of Litigation and Advocacy, Community Legal Services
• Shana Ellis
  Executive Director, ASU Action Nexus

Watch Episode 18 now on STN.

For many experiencing homelessness, the path to housing is not always a quick or easy journey. What are some of the roadblocks and how can we make the process better? We will sit down with one expert to talk about strategy as well as opportunities. Plus, we go inside the organization “ELAINE” for a look at how lives are being changed one ride at a time.

In the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters, Amy Schwabenlender and the panel discuss the myth that people who are homeless should just go out and get a job and they won’t be homeless anymore.

• Michelle Miguel
  Single Adults Coordinated Entry Compliance Coordinator, Human Services Campus
• Eric Barr
  Executive Director, ELAINE
• Shana Ellis
  Executive Director, ASU Action Nexus

Watch Episode 17 now on STN.

The issue of both permanent and temporary housing for those experiencing homelessness is an urgent one. We’ll sit down with leaders from Maricopa County’s Human Services Department to hear what resources are being put into action. Plus, we go one-on-one with the “Tiny House Doctor,” the Valley physician whose love of tiny homes has turned into a big passion project that’s changing lives.

In the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters, Amy Schwabenlender and the panel discuss the myth that homelessness is simply the result of poor economics.

• Bruce Liggett
  Director, Human Services at Maricopa County
• Rachel Milne
  Assistant Director, Housing and Community Development at Maricopa County
• Shana Ellis
  Executive Director, ASU Action Nexus

We take a look at the power of community outreach. From boots on the ground to the funding that provides much-needed support for organizations across the Valley, we’ll discuss why the outreach component is so critical in the fight to end homelessness.

In the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters, Amy Schwabenlender and the panel debunks the myth that the only place to volunteer to help those experiencing homelessness is in a soup kitchen.

• Neal Lester, PHD
  Founding Director, Project Humanities – ASU
• Scott Jenkins
  Big Chief, The Thunderbirds

What does it look like on the front lines when it comes to mental health and homelessness? Phoenix Police Assistant Chief Sean Connolly and Behavioral Health Consultant Kate Chandler from Circle the City join us live in-studio for the insight you rarely hear about. Also, meet the former star athlete whose new mission is bringing healthier food to communities that need it the most.

Amy Schwabenlender and the panel weigh in on whether a cell phone is a luxury or a necessity for people experiencing homelessness in the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters.

• Sean Connolly
  Assistant Chief, Phoenix Police Department
• Kate Chandler, LCSW
  Behavioral Health Consultant, Circle the City
• Shana Ellis
  Executive Director, ASU Action Nexus

Bringing “fast-food positivity” to the community is the mission of local artist Jayarr Steiner. He’s now sharing his “You Are Amazing” message and mural to those at the Human Services Campus. Steiner joins us live in studio to share why this recent project was not only important, but also deeply personal.

Plus, there’s been a lot of talk about the push for more affordable housing. Mike Shore, CEO of HOM, Inc., will join us live in studio. While many companies are navigating a critical market and hitting roadblocks, Shore and his team are taking action and finding solutions.

Amy Schwabenlender answers a question from Courtney Nelson, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications for Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona in the Leader to Leader segment and talks about the most common cause of homelessness in the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters.

• Mike Shore
  CEO, HOM, Inc.
• Jayarr Steiner
  Mural Artist

The McQuaid Mission is a streaming television series focused on the actions and solutions required to end homelessness. In this 12th episode, we take a look back at some of our most memorable conversations.

The ASU Action Nexus was created with two ideas in mind. The first is operationalizing ASU’s connection to The Human Services Campus and the second is coordinating a “regional response” to ending homelessness. Jonathan Koppell explains how participating ASU students are great at communicating the nature of the problem and the potential of every individual.

St. Joseph the Worker helps HSC clients by connecting them with local companies offering jobs. They also provide them with the resources and skills they need for successful interviews and a rewarding career.

And finally, Brighter Way Institute provides dental services to HSC clients to help transform their smiles and their self esteem. The Institute is also a volunteer training center for dentists from around the nation.

• Jonathan Koppell
  Dean of ASU Watts College & Vice Provost for Public Service & Social Impact
• Brent Downs
  Executive Director, St. Joseph The Worker
• Dr. Kris Volcheck
  CEO & Founder, Brighter Way Institute

Where does Arizona stand when it comes to affordable housing? The Governor recently announced $500 million in federal funds to combat homelessness and housing instability. We’ll sit down with the new director of Arizona’s Department of Housing to talk about the plan moving ahead. Plus, the President and CEO of Catholic Charities Community Services joins us live in studio to share the action underway to help the Valley’s Homeless Veterans.

Amy Schwabenlender answers a question from Jenny Poon, founder and CEO of CO+HOOTS in the Leader to Leader segment and talks about the myth of businesses being required by law to provide water to those in need in the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters.

• Tom Simplot
  Director, Arizona Department of Housing
• Paul Mulligan
  CEO & President, Catholic Charities Community Services

Can you imagine being in so much dental pain that you take a drill to your own mouth? This is just one of many emotional stories happening inside one very special dental center. Dr. Kris Volcheck, CEO & Founder of Brighter Way Institute, will join us live in studio to share the incredible efforts underway to help those experiencing homelessness. Plus, find out how the Action Nexus is bringing power players to the table with the “Regional Collaborative on Homelessness.”

Amy Schwabenlender answers a question from Nataly Rodriguez, founder of FitSoul and STN contributor in the Leader to Leader segment and describes how “functional zero” is the goal in ending homelessness in the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters.

• Shana Ellis
  Action Nexus Director, ASU
• Dr. Kris Volcheck
  CEO & Founder, Brighter Way Institute

We take an eye-opening look at the intersection of race and homelessness. A recent report reveals that African Americans are nearly four times more likely to experience homelessness in Maricopa County. For Native Americans, that number is more than two times. We’ll examine the disparities that exist and the steps being taken to fix it.

Amy Schwabenlender answers a question from Lloyd Hopkins at the Million Dollar Teacher Project in the Leader to Leader segment and helps explain the Government’s role in helping to end homelessness in the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters.

• Nicky Stevens
  Regional Homelessness Program Manager, Maricopa Association of Governments
• Brent Downs
  Executive Director, St. Joseph The Worker

Healing can come in many different ways. For the homeless, healthcare is not always easily accessible. Enter Circle the City, the team that provides top care and vaccinations for some of Arizona’s most vulnerable.

Also, do you believe in the healing power of music? We’ll have the sounds of a symphony live in studio, as well as a conversation with the President and CEO of The Phoenix Symphony. Join us for this powerful episode focused on helping and healing.

Amy Schwabenlender answers a question from Local First Arizona in the Leader to Leader segment and helps explain some commonly misunderstood terms in the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters.

• Suzanne Wilson
  President & CEO, The Phoenix Symphony
• Heidi Ward
  COO, Circle the City

• Leslie Frey Anderegg
  Acting Assistant Principal Second Violin, The Phoenix Symphony

What roles do data and systems play in the mission to get people off the streets for good? We examine the role technology plays in ending homelessness. Plus, with the searing heat around the corner, we take a deep dive into what that really means for our homeless population. There’s a popular belief that the homeless leave town – but is that true? Our expert, Amy Schwabenlender breaks down the facts in the latest edition of McQuaid Mission Mythbusters and answers a question from the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in our Leader to Leader segment.

• John Ehlinger
  President, Garcia Family Foundation
• Jerry Hirsch
  Chairman, The Lodestar Foundation

Inside the “Action Nexus.” Sounds futuristic, right? Well, the future is now, because the next generation is hard at work and ready to tackle homelessness. We’ll talk about ASU’s solutions-driven program that’s empowering students.

And having your ID handy, is something we might take for granted. But for those working their way out of homelessness, having identification at the ready is easier said than done. We’ll explain how the Homeless ID Project is instrumental in helping, while also reaching out to a new community at risk.

Amy Schwabenlender, executive director of the Human Services Campus, answers a question from Style PHX in our Leader to Leader segment and answers common questions in the MythBusters segment.

• Rick Mitchell
  Executive Director, Homeless ID Project
• Jonathan Koppell
  Dean of ASU Watts College & Vice Provost for Public Service & Social Impact

It’s estimated that more than 300 people are moving into Maricopa County everyday. Projections reflect 3,000 “affordable housing” units will be needed per year by 2030. When you combine those stats with a competitive housing and rental market, how do you make affordable housing a reality for those who need it?

Also, we’ll discuss how DES is connecting the business community with people looking to re-enter the workforce, and hear how they are providing life-changing solutions.

Amy Schwabenlender, executive director of the Human Services Campus, answers questions from local organizations in our Leader to Leader segment and answers common questions in the MythBusters segment.

• Leah Landrum Taylor
  Assistant Director of AZ Department of Economic Security (DES)
• Joan Serviss
  Executive Director of AZ Housing Coalition

Arizona Republic Reporter Jessica Boehm joins us live in studio. As the Housing Insecurity Reporter, Jessica’s beat is homelessness. Jessica has spent time on the frontlines with Phoenix’s homeless helping to tell their stories. She will share with us her unique perspective.

Also live in studio, Steve Zabilski, CEO of St. Vincent de Paul. Steve knows firsthand the progress being made both at home and regionally in the mission to serve those in need. He will discuss the current challenges as well as opportunities.

Toward the end, Amy Schwabenlender, executive director of the Human Services Campus, answers some common questions that are often unknown and frequently asked about the homeless population.

• Steve Zabilski
  CEO of St Vincent de Paul
• Jessica Boehm
  Housing Insecurity Reporter, Arizona Republic

In the heart of Phoenix you will find the Human Services Campus (HSC). Comprised of several buildings on 13 acres, HSC is a collaborative force consisting of 16 partner organizations. This tour is an eye-opening experience to the hope, promise and potential HSC provides the homeless community.

Also in this episode, Amy Schwabenlender, executive director of the Human Services Campus, is joined by the CEOs of Central Arizona Shelter Services (CASS), and Community Bridges (CBI) to discuss the fight and future of obtaining more shelter beds in our community. She also answers some common questions that are often unknown and frequently asked about the homeless population.

• Lisa Glow J.D.
  CEO of Central Arizona Shelter Services
• John F. Hogeboom
  President & CEO of Community Bridges Inc.

In Maricopa County in 2019, nearly 3,200 unsheltered people experienced homelessness, according to the Point-in-Time Count, an increase of 22% over 2018. This is only a one-day snapshot of people who are found and counted.

And the challenges will grow as the population grows, rents continue increasing, there is an ongoing shortage of affordable housing and the eviction rate climbs. The inflow of people into homelessness isn’t stopping. Adding more shelter beds is a first step and a short-term solution.

To address the challenge, Human Services Campus, which owns and manages the 13-acre campus housing 16 independent nonprofit and government organizations collaborating on a range of services, is seeking Phoenix City Council approval to add more shelter beds.’

Learn more: https://fromstreettohome.org/about/

In this second episode, Amy Schwabenlender, executive director of the Human Services Campus, walks us through their recommendations and requests to Phoenix City Council. She also answers common questions that are often unknown and frequently asked about the homeless population.

• Father Dan Ponisciak
  Executive Director of Andre House
• Cleo Lewis
  Community Advocate

The first episode covers the work, impact, and continued efforts of Mike McQuaid and his team at the Human Services Campus.

• Mike McQuaid Jr.
• U.S. Representative Greg Stanton