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
November 8th, 2024 | 10am-2pm | Moore Square, 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
- Connection point to housing providers
- Free wellness checks and health screenings
- Benefits enrollment and employment assistance
- Free haircuts, showers, clothing, hygiene products (Showers will be available 9am-4pm)
- And more
How to get involved
We are seeking 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! If you or your organization is interested in getting involved, please complete this form by October 25. A member of DRA’s team will be in touch. Interested in donating supplies? Please complete this form.
Project Reach Out is partnering with The Blood Connection to sponsor a blood drive on November 08, 2024, from 10:00 am – 1:30pm. Each donor will receive $20 in rewards! Each blood donation saves up to 3 lives! Donors need to be at least 16 years old (16 & 17-year-olds need a permission slip which will be at the blood drive), weigh at least 110 pounds, bring their ID, and be in general good health.
Pre-registration is required. Register here.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor Duke Energy for supporting outreach services in Downtown Raleigh.