McQuaid Mission – 2021 & 2022

4/11/2022

McQuaid Mission | Episode 31

Human Trafficking & Homeless Youth

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.

3/28/2022

McQuaid Mission | Episode 30

Solutions in Motion

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.

3/14/2022

McQuaid Mission | Episode 29

Health and Homelessness

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.

2/28/2022

McQuaid Mission | Episode 28

Senior Home Sharing

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.

2/14/2022

McQuaid Mission | Episode 27

LGBTQ Youth Homelessness

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.

1/31/2022

McQuaid Mission | Episode 26

Shared Housing Initiative

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.

1/17/2022

McQuaid Mission | Episode 25

Family Homelessness

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.

12/20/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 24

Inside The Arizona Housing Fund

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.

12/6/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 23

Native Connection & Community

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.

11/22/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 22

Keeping Seniors Housed

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.

11/8/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 21

The Power of Healthy Giving

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.

10/25/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 20

Harnessing the Momentum of Now

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.

10/11/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 19

The Process & Power of Philanthropy

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.

9/27/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 18

Inside Rapid Rehousing

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.

9/13/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 17

The Path to Housing

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.

8/30/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 16

Housing & The County Connection

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

8/16/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 15

Importance of Community Outreach

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

8/2/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 14

Front Line of Mental Health & Homelessness

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

7/19/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 13

One Artist’s Message: “YOU ARE AMAZING”

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

6/21/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 12

Best of: The McQuaid Mission

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

6/7/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 11

Mission Affordable Housing

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

5/24/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 10

A Brighter Way

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

5/10/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 9

Race & Homelessness

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

4/26/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 8

Different Ways of Healing

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

4/12/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 7

Using Tech to Tackle Homelessness

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

3/29/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 6

The Next Generation

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

3/15/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 5

Reality of Affordable Housing

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

3/1/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 4

On the Frontlines

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

2/15/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 3

A Campus for Collaboration

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.

2/1/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 2

First Steps

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.’

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

1/18/2021

McQuaid Mission | Episode 1

What is the McQuaid Mission?

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

Special guests include:

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