In 2004, providers from Continuums of Care (CoCs) in California began meeting to strategize on ending homelessness using a peer learning model. Over time, this group has expanded to include in-person convenings, a virtual meeting series, and resource sharing through a mailing list, and attracts a growing number of California communities. The peer learning model focuses on discussion between similar communities on shared topics of interest. Through targeted discussion engaging the collective knowledge of a group, this approach builds capacity and creates space for innovation. Past events have focused on topics like:

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• increasing racial equity in homelessness systems of care;

• new or emerging funding streams; and

• addressing unsheltered homelessness.

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Peer Communities events primarily target rural and semi-rural partners from homeless systems of care, including CoC Leadership, housing and services providers, and individuals with lived experience of homelessness. We welcome cross-system partners, as well as state and federal partners. At this time, we are limited to participants working in California communities. Peer Communities virtual events are free to attend.

 

For over 20 years, Homebase has provided facilitation and light touch technical assistance to the peer communities, in both in-person and virtual convenings. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is a key supporter of this work. If you have any questions, please contact roundtable@homebaseccc.org.

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