Shared Strengths

The greatest strengths both community members and service providers possess are broad diversity and the ability to accomplish what is done with such limited resources. Between these two groups are people from all over the country - California, Pennsylvania, DC, Florida, and North Carolina. There are people who have been educated primarily on the street and others who have obtained college degrees. This diversity in background, education, skills and experience offers a wealth of knowledge which can enrich the dialogue between service providers and community members.

The diversity of service groups available in Durham matches the diversity of its residents. Within this diverse group are government services, political action groups, faith-based service ministries, and concerned individuals - and each group brings their own perspectives and resources to address the needs of homeless people and people living in challenging situations.

Community members and service providers have also shown an amazing ability to accomplish a lot with only a little. For some community members, survival through each day is a testament to their industriousness, while service providers demonstrate their industriousness by their ability to provide services on the limited funds at their disposal.

Other Similarities in Identified Needs/Causes of Homelessness

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Methods: IRB Application and Approval