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.
Do you have questions or comments that you would like to share with the presenters before the event?
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
Presenters:
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,…
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…