CANCELLED: Conversations for Change
Conversations for Change is temporarily moving online due the cancellation of library events caused by COVID-19. The conversations are designed to foster greater understanding among individuals who may have different viewpoints. Participants in these small group conversations, guided by a trained host, practice being open and curious about all perspectives, with a focus on learning from one another.
Space is limited. Registration is required. Instructions for joining the online disucssion will be emailed prior to the event.
Prior to registering, please review the Conversation Agreements.
Project Connect is a group of actively engaged citizens who care about bridging divides in our community as a means of preserving our democratic republic and the flourishing of our country. It is a Finding Common Ground team associated with Santa Cruz Indivisible.
- Date:
- Tuesday, May 12, 2020
- Time:
- 5:15pm - 7:30pm
- Location:
- Downtown Upstairs Meeting Room
- Branch:
- Downtown
- Audience:
- Adults
- Categories:
- Civic Engagement Discussion Group
Homelessness: A Complex Issue
Most Californians are concerned about homelessness, the causes and solutions. A poll from the Public Policy Institute of CA found that 85% of respondents are concerned about our state’s 130,000 homeless people. That concern transcends party affiliation. This Conversation for Change will focus on your views on the causes and steps necessary to begin to resolve the problems of homelessness affecting our community.
Homeless people do not fit into any one category. Some are local folks; others are not. There are those who’ve lost jobs, housing, and suffered significant financial difficulties. Some who live in cars or shelters work or go to school, trying to better their circumstances. Some of the most vulnerable while living on the streets become mentally unstable and/or addicted.Then there are the chronically mentally ill and chemically addicted who cannot function or hold a job. Some turn to petty crime and property theft as a way of supporting addiction. Homelessness is a humanitarian crisis affecting our communities.