Ampersee Advisory Team: A Community-Driven Initiative
The Ampersee Advisory Team is a collective of individuals with lived experiences of homelessness and housing insecurity, working together to shape the future of their community. More than just an advisory group, they have become a family unit, supporting one another, sharing critical resources, and advocating for meaningful change. This team plays an essential role in ensuring that the voices of those most affected by housing instability are heard and valued in the development of solutions tailored to their needs.
The Ampersee Advisory Team is a collective of individuals with lived experiences of homelessness and housing insecurity, working together to shape the future of their community. More than just an advisory group, they have become a family unit, supporting one another, sharing critical resources, and advocating for meaningful change. This team plays an essential role in ensuring that the voices of those most affected by housing instability are heard and valued in the development of solutions tailored to their needs.
Led by Michelle S. Johnson, with key team members Elan Bridges, Reeta Chandler, and Mia Sanchez, provide first hand insights that guide the Institute of Public Scholarship in its efforts to create sustainable housing solutions especially in regard to their social determinants of health. Team members contribute by identifying gaps in local resources, advising on services that would benefit the community, and offering recommendations for the design and implementation of housing initiatives. Recognizing the value of their lived expertise, the Institute compensates advisory team members for their time, knowledge, and contributions.
Michelle S. Johnson | Ampersee Team Lead
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Elan Bridges | Public Health Navigator
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Reeta Chandler | Program Manager
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Mia Sanchez | Community Health Worker
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Ampersee Advisory Team MeetingsEach month, the Ampersee Advisory Team gathers in a welcoming and supportive community space, where members share a warm meal and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of the initiative. These meetings serve as a vital hub for planning, collaboration, and collective problem-solving, with a focus on addressing housing insecurities, strengthening community bonds, and empowering individuals with financial literacy and other essential life skills.
With an atmosphere of trust and shared purpose, advisors work together to develop strategies that support stable housing, economic growth, and overall well-being for those in need. Conversations are guided by a commitment to inclusivity and action, ensuring that every voice is heard and every perspective valued. The meetings not only provide a space for strategic planning but also foster deep connections, equipping team members with the tools and resources to create lasting impact in the community. |
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The advisory team is a core component of the Ampersee Home Start Initiative, a groundbreaking project focused on building ten homes for individuals and families who have experienced housing insecurity. These homes are not just structures but foundations for stability, empowerment, and a renewed sense of belonging. Through the guidance of advisors the advisory team, this initiative is driven by those who understand the challenges firsthand, ensuring that the community being built truly serves its residents.
At its heart, the Ampersee Advisory Team is about collective empowerment—turning struggle into strength and experience into action. By fostering mutual support and advocating for housing justice, while working on their social determinants of health, they are helping to shape a future where safe, affordable, and dignified housing is a reality for all.
At its heart, the Ampersee Advisory Team is about collective empowerment—turning struggle into strength and experience into action. By fostering mutual support and advocating for housing justice, while working on their social determinants of health, they are helping to shape a future where safe, affordable, and dignified housing is a reality for all.
The Stories of the Advisory Members
Andrew Copeland |
John BeemanMeet John Beeman—sharing his journey and the challenges that led to his current housing situation. His story is a powerful reminder of the realities many in our community face and the resilience it takes to keep moving forward. Watch, listen, and reflect.
📺 Watch the full video here: [Insert YouTube Link] #HousingMatters #CommunityVoices #JohnsStory" |
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Andrew Copeland shares why the Ampersee Home Start Initiative and its advisory team are important to him. His story highlights the power of community-driven solutions and the impact of having a voice in shaping housing support.
📺 Watch the full video here: [Insert YouTube Link] #AmperseeHomeStart #CommunityLeadership #HousingForAll |
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