On February 19 to 21, 2020, I had the opportunity to present at the National Alliance to End Homelessness Conference in Oakland, California, a national convening that brought together policymakers, practitioners, advocates, philanthropists, researchers, and service providers working to prevent and end homelessness.

My workshop, Innovative Strategies to Increase Employment and Income for People Experiencing Homelessness, explored employment social enterprises, cash assistance, and the role meaningful work can play in addressing homelessness.

The conversations reinforced something I continue to see: Employment is often connected to more than income. It can influence stability, dignity, community, and opportunity.

Grateful to the leaders, practitioners, and advocates working daily to strengthen pathways toward housing stability and economic mobility nationwide.