The System Is the Strategy: From Systems Thinking to Local Action (Coconino County)

Homelessness is not simply the result of individual circumstances or isolated program gaps. It is shaped by the way housing, healthcare, criminal justice, economic, and service systems interact. This workshop challenges common assumptions about homelessness and introduces a practical systems-thinking framework for understanding what drives homelessness, how current performance measures can reinforce downstream responses, and why communities must focus on inflow, system flow, and lasting housing stability to achieve population-level reductions. Attendees will explore how measurement, funding, incentives, and system design shape outcomes with the aim of identifying high-leverage opportunities to move from managing homelessness more efficiently to reducing it over time.

Following the presentation and a networking lunch, participants will take part in a facilitated work session focused on applying these concepts locally. Through structured discussion and collaborative planning, attendees will examine current community approaches, identify system gaps and opportunities, and begin developing practical strategies in three priority areas:

• increasing homelessness prevention capacity and coordination;
• improving system alignment and bed capacity to support timely movement through shelter and housing programs; and
• reducing returns to homelessness following housing interventions.

Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of their local system, shared priorities for improvement, and actionable next steps that can be advanced through continued collaboration among providers, funders, public agencies, and community partners.

Items to Note: 

• Lunch is included.
• This workshop is $50 for AZHC members and $75 for non-members.

Visit secure.everyaction.com/q0RGuvvlGUSr6VNPEkDj9g2 to learn more and register to attend.

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This workshop is presented by Jason Thorpe, Emma Hockenberg, and Kat Davis.

• Jason Thorpe has turned lived experience into a career dedicated to creating lasting housing solutions. As Deputy Director of the City of Tucson’s Housing and Community Development Department, he oversees programs providing temporary shelter and permanent housing for approximately 6,000 Tucson families nightly. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Strategic Leadership and has more than 20 years of experience in non-profit and government housing programs. His leadership is fueled by both expertise and empathy, blending two decades of housing advocacy with a deep belief in the power of community. Jason also lends his voice to statewide and local boards advancing housing justice and domestic violence prevention. Whether traveling the world, hiking with his rescue dogs, or mentoring future leaders, Jason is driven by the conviction that intentional connection can transform lives and communities.
• Emma Hockenberg is a Project Coordinator with the Tucson and Pima County Continuum of Care and brings 15 years of experience working directly with individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Her experience spans the full housing continuum, from emergency shelter and crisis services to permanent housing, as well as program development and implementation. With a strong understanding of both direct service and system-level work, Emma brings a practical, informed perspective to addressing the complex needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
• Kat Davis, CoC Lead Team Manager for the Tucson Pima Collaboration to End Homelessness, is a community-focused leader with more than 15 years of experience developing programs, building cross-sector partnerships, and improving access to services for underserved communities. During her time working in both housing and public health, she led initiatives in partnership with local housing and homeless service organizations to address barriers to health, housing, and essential services. Kat has extensive experience leading teams, developing community-based programs, and bringing together government agencies, nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, and community members around shared goals. Her approach centers lived experience, meaningful community engagement, and practical collaboration to create more responsive and equitable systems. Kat brings a strong understanding of the intersection between housing, health, and community well-being, along with a passion for strengthening partnerships and supporting communities in developing sustainable solutions.