GenUnity’s Post

Join us in welcoming our newest team members, Program Coordinators, Leo Balik and Whitney Sanchez! Scroll through the graphic below to learn more about their backgrounds and what brought them to join the GenUnity community.

Hear from ADRIANA RAINES, M Ed. (Housing Justice '23) about growing up in Jamaica Plain, following in her mother's footsteps and what her GenUnity experience was able to offer her!

Hear from Jousette Anaya on the state of elder care in MA, understanding the meaning of health equity and finding the GenUnity community!

Check out this month's newsletter! In this month’s newsletter, we’re sharing: ✨ Bright spots in Boston ✨ Local Volunteer Opportunities to help you get involved ✨ Civic Season Book Recommendations ✨ Local Nonprofit Job Listings ✨ Insights on what GenUnity Lifetime Community members are currently up to ✨ Upcoming GenUnity Community events

Did you know on a single night in 2023, 40.8% of homeless youth are unsheltered — sleeping outside, in a car, or some place not meant for human habitation? The following organizations are working hard to address youth homelessness locally: Family Independence, Inc.- Offers programs such as Young Parent Living Program (YPLP), a safe and structured residential environment for homeless teen parents aged 12-21 and their children; Emergency Assistance Shelter Program, an immediate shelter and support to at-risk families; Comprehensive case management; Mental health services; Life skills and parenting education; Educational support. Housing Families- Offers programs such as Homelessness Prevention and Shelter Program, Providing emergency shelter and supportive services to prevent family homelessness; Greatest Need Housing Program, offering housing search assistance and stabilization services; and Children’s Program, providing educational and emotional support for children experiencing homelessness. Dismas House of Massachusetts, Inc.- Offers programs such as Residential Reentry Services, providing transitional housing and support services for former prisoners to help them reintegrate into society; Mentorship Programs, connecting residents with mentors for guidance and support; Job Training and Employment Services, offering job readiness training and employment assistance. HomeStart Inc.- Offers programs such as Housing Search Services, assisting individuals and families in finding and securing permanent housing; Stabilization Programs, providing ongoing support to ensure long-term housing stability; Advocacy and Legal Services, offering legal assistance and advocacy to prevent evictions and protect tenant rights. Be sure to support the highlighted orgs by learning more about their work at the LINK IN COMMENTS. Interested in joining a community of folks working towards equity in Boston? Apply to GenUnity’s Health Equity and Housing Justice Fellowships while spots last via LINK IN COMMENTS.

The Massachusetts House approved a $6.5 billion plan to address the state's affordable housing crisis. The bill includes initiatives to build more affordable housing and support economic development, aiming to mitigate decades of sluggish housing production. The following organizations have worked tirelessly to advocate for and address housing affordability in Boston: Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation (DBEDC)- Offers programs to help local small businesses open, sustain, and grow, including access to microloans and business coaching. DBEDC provides job training and placement services, supporting career development and helping residents, including returning citizens, integrate into the workforce. Through events like the Annual Arts in the Park and the Community Block Party, as well as initiatives like Rock and Roll Seniors and the Tech Goes Home course, DBEDC fosters community involvement and supports resident-led initiatives. Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation (CSNDC)- Develops and manages affordable housing units to ensure stable living conditions for low and moderate-income families. They offer programs to support local businesses, job training, and placement services. CSNDC also provides health and wellness programs, financial education, and youth services to support community members' overall well-being. Fenway Community Development Corporation (FCDC)- Develops and preserves affordable housing units to meet the needs of low and moderate-income residents. Offers services such as job training, financial literacy programs, and tenant support. Organizes events and programs to foster a strong community network and address local needs. Asian Community Development Corporation (ACDC)- Develops housing projects tailored to the needs of the Asian American community. Provides programs like financial education, youth leadership training, and language support. Engages the community through cultural events and advocacy initiatives. Allston Brighton CDC- Creates and maintains affordable housing units for diverse income levels. Provides resources like job training, financial education, and health services. Organizes community events and advocacy efforts to support local residents. Be sure to support the highlighted orgs by learning more about their work at the LINK IN COMMENTS. Interested in joining a community of folks working towards equity in Boston? Apply to GenUnity’s Health Equity and Housing Justice Fellowships while spots last via LINK IN COMMENTS.