The System Is the Strategy: From Systems Thinking to Local Action (Yuma 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.

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Visit secure.everyaction.com/jVDTNwrv4kCGX9WEBZm99w2 to learn more and register to attend.