Volunteers Sought to Help with Homelessness Study

Wilder Research has asked regions across the state to count the number of people experiencing homelessness in their communities, and Anoka County is seeking volunteers for this effort, which will take place Thursday, Oct. 25 at various locations around the county. Training will be provided on how to conduct face-to-face interviews with the homeless at 1-2:30 pm, Monday, Oct. 15, and 2-3:30 pm, Tuesday, Oct. 16 in room 552 of the Anoka County Government Center, 2100 3rd Ave. Visit anokacounty.us/2018MnHomelessStudy to sign up for training or for more information about this initiative. Self-guided training is available for those who have participated in past studies and is posted on the 2018 Minnesota Homeless Study webpage.

The data collected will be used to guide program development and support requests for funding at the federal, state and local levels to combat homelessness. People who volunteer for this study will help shape the future in a positive way for individuals in need of stable housing.  After training is complete, participants will have options as to where and for how long they’d like to volunteer. Those who take part in the study will be paired with other volunteers who have experience working with the homeless. For people experiencing homelessness, the study is completely voluntary, and for those who choose to participate, a $10 stipend is awarded.