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. In-person events may have a small fee (~$15). This amount is collected to cover breakfast and lunch for participants and can be waived by contacting the Homebase team. Please note, in-person events are suspended due to the continued impact of COVID-19, but we intend to return to hybrid virtual and in-person model in the coming year.

 

For over 15 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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Please note, this group was formerly known as the “Northern California (NorCal) Homelessness Roundtable” and “Central California (CenCal) Homelessness Roundtable.”