Outreach Services
The Downtown Raleigh Alliance takes seriously the mission of advancing the community’s vitality for everyone, including people without homes. People without homes are part of every downtown in the United States, and the factors contributing to homelessness are varied and systemic. DRA is committed to ensuring the dignity of this vulnerable population and remains steadfast in undermining the status quo through our Ambassador Program and partnerships.
Downtown Raleigh Ambassador Program
In addition to contributing to overall safety, downtown’s Ambassadors are integral to ensuring the dignity of vulnerable people. Ambassadors are trained to form relationships, serve as connection points for resources, and are often deployed to de-escalate crises. Their proactive engagement in the community provides an empathetic and immediate response to challenges where people without homes are involved.
In addition to quality-of-life assistance and outreach, Ambassadors provide metrics that city leaders rely on in designating resources. The addition of two full-time social workers to the Ambassador team accelerates the connection to care for unsheltered residents.
Project REACH OUT
Fall 2024 | 201 S. Blount Street
Convening partners is a core function of DRA’s work, and Project REACH OUT is a collective of organizations who connect service-based partners with community members in need of services.
Twice per year, the Downtown Raleigh Ambassador Program invites those experiencing or at risk of homelessness and those who need medical or mental health assistance to the Project REACH OUT Day of Care— a one-day, one-stop event in Downtown Raleigh that connects social service and community organizations with the community members who need their support.
Services Provided at Project REACH OUT - Free & open to the public
- Access point to housing
- Free wellness checks and health screenings
- Benefits enrollment and employment assistance
- Free haircuts, showers, clothing, hygiene products (Showers will be available 9am-4pm)
- Pet care
- And more
Interested in getting involved?
If you or your organization is interested in getting involved, please complete this form, and a member of DRA’s team will be in touch. We're seeking donations and volunteers for the day-of to assist with manning tables, setting up tents, and other similar tasks. Volunteers who are bilingual in Spanish are very helpful!
The Blood Connection will also be on-site for people to donate blood. You must register in advance here.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor Duke Energy for supporting outreach services in Downtown Raleigh.