2024 Summit Session Archives - Home

Addressing Medical Challenges of RV Residents

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:45:05 +0000

The core of the presentation will focus on the healthcare access challenges faced by RV residents and the solutions they’ve identified. Each challenge and corresponding solution will be illustrated with anonymized stories, giving voice to the lived experiences of vehicle residents. Additionally, I will share practical information and resources to support caregivers who collaborate with RV residents.

Presenter

Ruth Tretter, PhD

Medical researcher and Travel Nurse Ruth Tretter is a distinguished nursing scholar passionate about enhancing equity and quality in healthcare through innovative approaches like telehealth…

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RV Resident Surveys

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:44:41 +0000

The RV Resident Surveys Presentation is a collaborative session aimed at shedding light on ongoing research related to RV residency. The presentation features leading experts and researchers to share their methodologies and findings, fostering an environment of knowledge exchange and practical application.

Presenters

Graham J. Pruss, PhD

Dr. Graham J. Pruss is an anthropologist who studies vehicle residency in North America. His research focuses on the intersection of lived experiences, social services, legal…

Peggy Lee Kennedy

Peggy is 3rd generation Venice, California resident, daughter of a human and environmental rights family, and co-founder of the Venice Justice Committee in 2001. The…

Sam Lutzker

Sam Lutzker is a PhD candidate in the Department of Sociology at UCLA whose dissertation research examines the rise of vehicle residency and homelessness in…

Thomas Knight

Thomas Knight (he/him) is a member of the Lived Experience Advisory Board of Silicon Valley’s (LEABsv) Executive Committee. He brings a unique blend of corporate…

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Raising Positive Public Awareness: What can we do today?

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:44:16 +0000

This engaging presentation at the 2024 Vehicle Residency Summit focuses on practical strategies and actions to raise positive public awareness about vehicle residency. The session will explore building community, understanding the spectrum of vehicle residency, and demonstrating successful initiatives. Key topics include:

Building Community and Solidarity: Encouraging befriending and mutual support among community members, sharing meals, and fostering peer relationships.
Humanizing Vehicle Residents: Sharing personal stories to challenge stereotypes, elevating the voices of vehicle residents, and advocating for their stability and inclusion in policy development.
Collaborative Efforts: Working with local officials, law enforcement, and community organizations to protect and support vehicle residents, breaking down unfounded fears and NIMBYism.
Practical Steps for Raising Awareness: Engaging the public through clean and well-maintained living spaces, open community meetings, and educational opportunities.

Attendees will leave with actionable steps and strategies to positively influence public perception and support vehicle residents effectively.

Presenters:

Karina O’Malley

Karina O’Malley was part of the group in 2011 that started the Lake Washington United Methodist Church Safe Parking program, a church ministry serving women…

Lisa Bernad

Lisa is a full-time nomad, artist, and videographer who has worked for decades in the non-profit sector as an advocate, activist, and community builder. She…

Lisa Darcy

For 38 years, Lisa has been involved in the recovery and reintegration process for those socially, economically, and physically marginalized. Relocating to Maui resident 22…

Sonia Davis

Known to her community as “Grams,” Sonia was born in Honolulu Hawai‘i, on the island of Oahu. Of Hawaiian decent, she moved to the island…

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The Stones Would Shout: Parking Program Pathways for Faith Partners

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:43:46 +0000

Faith communities hold a unique and pivotal role in addressing the needs of vehicle residents. Often possessing the necessary resources and compassionate mission, faith communities are ideally situated to provide safe parking spaces for those living in their vehicles. However, many congregations are unsure where to begin, how to implement effective programs, or how to sustain and grow these initiatives.

Key Topics Covered

Starting Your Program: Bill Kirlin-Hackett and Bill Sweeney will guide you through the essential steps to start a parking program in your congregation. From initial planning and securing necessary approvals to setting up facilities and establishing guidelines, you’ll gain practical insights to kickstart your initiative.
Legal and Regulatory Framework: Understand the legal landscape, including the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) and the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), which protect the exercise of faith and the use of property by religious institutions. Learn how to navigate zoning laws and obtain necessary permits.
Core Program Elements: Explore the fundamental components of a successful SafeLot program, including site selection, utilities, sanitation, safety, and supportive services. Discover how to ensure that your site meets the needs of vehicle residents while maintaining compliance with local regulations.
Sharing Stories: This session will provide a platform for sharing experiences. If your congregation already hosts a parking program, come and share your story. By exchanging experiences, challenges, and successes, we can learn from one another and build a supportive network of faith partners.
Thriving and Growing: Discover strategies to ensure your program not only survives but thrives. Learn how to engage your community, attract volunteers, and secure funding. Explore ideas for expanding your program to provide additional support services, such as food assistance, counseling, or job training, to vehicle residents.
Interactive Dialogue: The session will include an interactive discussion where participants can ask questions, exchange ideas, and collaborate on solutions. This is an opportunity to hear from experienced leaders and peers who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of vehicle residents.

Presenters:

Bill Kirlin-Hackett

The Rev. Bill Kirlin-Hackett has directed the Interfaith Task Force on Homelessness (ITFH) since 2004. The ITFH, fiscally hosted by St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, Bellevue,…

William Sweeney

I began working as a volunteer, visiting patients on the back wards of thehuge “mental hospitals” that existed in the late Fifties. As the transitionto…

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How to Not Lose Everything Due to an Accident

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:43:22 +0000

Join Amanda Johnson for an essential presentation on “How Not to Lose Everything Due to an Accident.” Drawing from real-life experiences and practical knowledge, Amanda will provide invaluable insights to help you safeguard your mobile lifestyle.

In this comprehensive session, Amanda will share her personal stories of accidents while on the road, including incidents in Washington and Florida. These experiences underscore the importance of preparation and quick thinking in protecting your vehicle, belongings, and well-being.

She will cover immediate actions to take after an accident, including documentation, contacting law enforcement, and coordinating with insurance. Amanda will offer guidance on handling both injury and non-injury situations and managing vehicle towing.

Post-accident strategies will include finding temporary accommodation, securing rental vehicles, and seeking assistance from local organizations and emergency funds. Amanda will also discuss advocating for yourself with insurance agents and making decisions about vehicle repair or salvage.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Amanda Johnson’s expertise and ensure you are well-prepared to handle any accidents on the road. This session is crucial for anyone living a vehicular lifestyle or planning to transition to one.

- Amanda Johnson
  
  BA in Human Services (Social Work) and Masters of Education: Curriculum & Instruction Amanda is a professional musician, educator, and professional development facilitator that has been a car camper, minivan stealther, and cargo van builder for almost a decade but has been nomadic through her music for over 2 decades. From extensive experience with living in…
  read more…

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Addressing Information and Library Needs of Vehicle Residents

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:43:00 +0000

This session will delve into the unique information needs and behaviors of vehicle residents, drawing from the presenter’s extensive background in public librarianship and current doctoral research in Library and Information Science.

The presentation will highlight personal and professional experiences that underscore the importance of this work, including the story of the presenter’s brother, Joey, who lived in his SUV in Santa Cruz. This personal connection provided a unique perspective on vehicle residency and inspired the presenter’s research. The session will introduce the concepts of human information behavior and information practice, explaining how these theories apply to vehicle residents through relatable examples.

Attendees will learn about the methods and findings from various studies, including a 2020 scrape of Cheaper RV Living posts, a 2021-2022 pilot study conducted via Zoom, and ongoing ethnographic work in Santa Cruz. The presentation will discuss the concept of the information horizon and how it can be used to map the information-seeking behaviors of vehicle residents. Data collected from significant events such as the Women’s Rubber Tramp Rendezvous, Rubber Tramp Rendezvous, Skooliepalooza, and Van Aid will be shared, offering preliminary insights into the information needs of this community.

Presenter:

Kaitlin Montague

Kaitlin E. Montague is a PhD candidate from Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, at the School of Communication and Information in the Department of Library and Information Science (LIS). Her research focuses on vehicle residents’ information practices and their most prevalent information resources and source preferences to support their daily lives using…
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Panel: How to Launch a Parking Program

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:42:35 +0000

Join us for an insightful and practical panel discussion on “How to Launch a Parking Program” at the 2004 Vehicle Residency Summit. This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to successfully implement a parking program tailored to your community’s needs. Our distinguished panelists bring diverse perspectives and expertise, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this field.

In this session, we’ll address crucial topics such as risk management and the biggest concerns from the city and community, strategies for engaging different stakeholder groups, and creating low-barrier safe programs. We’ll discuss measures to ensure the safety of both participants and the surrounding community, including harm reduction practices and trauma-informed care. The panel will explore the logistics of running a program, from funding and insurance needs to data management and vehicle maintenance. We’ll also cover how to balance emergency and long-term services, work with law enforcement, and navigate anti-homeless initiatives. Additionally, we’ll examine the evolution of programs over time, the role of client advisory boards, and overcoming barriers to participation.

Panelists:

Emily Uyeda Kantrim

Emily Uyeda Kantrim Founder and Interim Executive Director of Safe Parking Los Angeles Emily Uyeda Kantrim, the interim executive director of Safe Parking LA, has…

Karina O’Malley

Karina O’Malley was part of the group in 2011 that started the Lake Washington United Methodist Church Safe Parking program, a church ministry serving women…

Linda Barringer

Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Linda grew up in a large tight-knit family. She graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Social Work. Linda…

Nicolas Quijano

Nico Quijano is the Homelessness Outreach Program Manager for the City of Bellevue, in Washington State. He oversees direct outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness, including…

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Vehicle Residents: Important and Necessary Seasonal Labor

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:42:07 +0000

Vehicle residents have a long history of providing essential seasonal labor that supports critical sectors such as food and energy production, shipping logistics, and recreation services in the United States. Despite their significant contributions, vehicle residents are often misrepresented in media and political discourse as merely part of the “homeless problem.” This perspective overlooks the crucial role they play in sustaining our economy.

Protecting the rights and livelihood of vehicle residents is vital not only for their well-being but also for the health of our economy. This presentation, featuring several employers of seasonal labor, will shed light on the indispensable need for vehicle residents to meet labor demands.

Goals

Highlight Economic Contribution: Demonstrate how vehicle residents who work as seasonal laborers provide necessary services and contribute to the economy by paying taxes and supporting local businesses. They sustain themselves through their work, which is vital for various industries.
Diverse Workforce: Show that many seasonal laborers are vehicle residents, including both full-time and part-time individuals. This group includes young people striving to make a living and retired individuals seeking engaging work. Vehicle residents range from those living in official RVs to those residing in cars or tents.
Protecting Rights and Livelihoods: Emphasize the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of vehicle residents. Ensuring their protection is essential not only for their individual survival but also for maintaining the economic stability they help uphold.

Presenter

Jake Hoster

Jake Hoster A vehicle resident of over five years, Jake became a nomad after a 20+ year IT career. He has found success and happiness…

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US Census Bureau: Counting Vehicle Residents

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:40:56 +0000

Join the U.S. Census Bureau for an insightful presentation at the 2024 Vehicle Residency Summit, where they will explore the vital role of the Census in understanding vehicle residents.

What Does the Census Bureau Do?

Discover the core functions of the U.S. Census Bureau and its mission to provide accurate and comprehensive data about the nation’s population. Learn about the Decennial Census, a critical population count conducted every 10 years, with the mission statement: “Count everyone once, only once, and in the right place.” This session will emphasize the importance of participation in the Census, particularly for those residing in vehicles, and how it impacts resource allocation and representation.

What are Living Quarter Types?

The Census Bureau recognizes various living quarter types, each with unique characteristics:

Housing Unit: Traditional residential dwellings.
Transitory Locations: Places where people live temporarily, such as RV parks and campgrounds.
Group Quarters: Facilities like shelters, dormitories, and institutional living arrangements.

How Does the Census Count People Living in Vehicles?

Learn about the specific methodologies employed by the Census Bureau to ensure accurate counting of individuals residing in vehicles:

Enumeration at Transitory Locations: Techniques for counting people living in RV parks and campgrounds.
Service-Based Enumeration (SBE): Strategies for reaching individuals at targeted non-sheltered outdoor locations and those participating in safe parking programs.
Mobile Questionnaire Assistance: Innovative approaches to assist vehicle residents in completing the Census.

Q&A Session

Conclude the presentation with an interactive Q&A session, where attendees can ask questions and engage in a dialogue with Census Bureau representatives to gain a deeper understanding of the Census process and its significance for vehicle residents.

Presenters:

Brian Zamperini

Brian Zamperini has worked at the U.S. Census Bureau for 20 years. Brian is a survey statistician in the Special Enumerations Branch in the Decennial…

Crystal Miller

Crystal Miller is a seasoned professional with a passion for statistics and a commitment to improving census methodologies. She graduated from West Virginia University with…

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#Vanlife and the Right to Privacy

NVRC Admin — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 01:39:58 +0000

Your home enjoys the highest level of Fourth Amendment protection against
government intrusion. Your car the least. So what happens when your home is your
car?

This question affects over one million Americans who currently live in vans, RVs,
trailers, and other vehicles, and their ranks are growing. Most Americans would be
surprised to learn that they enjoy greater privacy rights in a tent than if living in a
recreational vehicle (“RV”) or van, even if situated in the same campground.

This talk discusses the striking privacy vulnerability of the U.S.’s burgeoning vehicle-
dwelling population based on an analysis of fifty years of federal and state case law on searches of vehicular homes, and suggests several ways in which courts can and
should enhance vehicle dwellers’ privacy rights.

Presenter

Sabrina Safrin

Professor of Law and Arthur L. Dickson Scholar Professor Safrin earned her J.D. from Boalt Hall School of Law at the University of California at…

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