Most Unusual of Partners: Civic Engagement through Resident Collaboration

United by motherhood and driven to end homelessness, the residents of HOME have joined together to form a Resident Council. Although they vary in levels of expertise and experience, they are committed to making a difference for themselves and others in the program. Democratically elected, six ladies have been called to serve. Having different titles and duties, they serve as the “voice” to all residents and are the leaders of our facility.

Interested candidates were to complete an application and submit a resume, as well as a cover letter. Seemingly tedious, it was done to promote job readiness and practice essential skills necessary for the job market. Each candidate was then interviewed and asked to state their position of interest. Once all interviews were completed, there was an electoral ballet and the candidates were able to chose their preferred elected official. In the end, there was a President, Vice President, Secretary, Community Liaison, Child Coordinator, and Council Alternate.

In the short month that the Council has been operational, many important lessons have been learned. Essential aspects such as –a governing procedure, a grievance policy, clear understanding of duties, role, and position—were early obstacles that needed to be dealt with. Many of the ladies also discovered early on that communication was a component of the elected board that was critical for them to thrive. Not easily deterred they agreed to revisit old policies and begin follow a parliamentary procedure. They were all quite determined to make their partnership work and to do so in a manner that was inclusive of all.

Civic engagement could not be more evident than in the partnership that these Council women have formed. Their resiliency to overcome the immense obstacles in their lives and wiliness to help others in similar situations is truly moving. With their help and that of fellow advocates, we can all work together to help break the cycle of homeless in Osceola County.

*Post by Albery Melo, Program Assistant for HOME. Albery works to bring volunteers and HOME residents together in a partnership so that our families can become self-sufficient and manages our life-skills program.

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