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 Partnerships

Convening partners is a core function of DRA’s work, and Project REACH OUT is a collective of organizations aiming to assist vulnerable populations with immediate and long-term solutions. DRA’s leadership includes addressing barriers to care and advocating for civic and nonprofit resources. These partnerships are formed in alignment with those values.

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.

The next Project REACH OUT Day of Care is

Friday, April 28

10:00 AM-2:00 PM

Moore Square, Downtown Raleigh

200 S. Blount Street

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.

Contact: Darlene

dmcclain@streetplus.net

DRA's Social Services Outreach Ambassador