Urban Alchemy

Our HEART (Homeless Engagement and Response Team) program in City of Austin is expanding, and we couldn’t be more thrilled! This innovative program has been a game-changer, fostering trust and delivering compassionate, community-based solutions to those experiencing homelessness. ? Kirkpatrick Tyler, our Chief of Government and Community Affairs, recently shared insights on the critical role of proactive engagement and how it strengthens community bonds:?https://bit.ly/3YYA4rU ?#HEARTProgram?#Austin #Birmingham #PublicSafety

We had the pleasure of hosting a team from the City of Birmingham, for a tour of our Safe Rest Villages in Portland!?They’re here to learn about our unique approach to supporting unhoused neighbors and creating pathways to stability. We’re excited to share our model and exchange ideas to help more communities thrive. ?#SafeRestVillages #CommunitySolutions #Birmingham

This weekend, our Austin team distributed coats and meals to our East Austin neighbors, ensuring they’re supported as colder months arrive. Together, we’re helping create warmth and resilience in our communities. We are extremely grateful for the support from our partners: WeCanNow, The Hungry Hill Foundation, Hoop Shop, Huston-Tillotson University, Anythings Baked Potato, Roger Beasley Mazda, Austin Parks and Recreation, and the Yellow Bike Project. Without them, this effort would not have been possible. #CommunityImpact #Austin #Nonprofit

We’re proud to be co-founded by a Black leader and to be a majority Black organization. With Black-owned businesses making up only about 3% of U.S. companies, our COO and Co-Founder, Bayron, is sharing his insights and tips to inspire other business owners on their journey to success! #Blackentrepreneurs #nonprofit #sanfrancisco

We are proud to share that Kevin Lee, our Director of Austin Operations, and Sarah Finley, our Deputy Director, attended the 2024 Greater Austin Business Awards (Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce)! Being nominated in the Nonprofit Impact category is an incredible honor, and we were thrilled to stand alongside inspiring organizations. We're grateful to be part of the?Austin community. #Leadership #CommunityImpact #GreaterAustinAwards?

Though World Mental Health Day has passed, we’re spotlighting LaToya Stevenson, our Mental Health Director for the LA CIRCLE Program. LaToya shares insights into her daily work supporting both our unhoused neighbors and staff, using her expertise and compassion to make a lasting positive impact. From de-escalating crises to connecting individuals with mental health and recovery resources, she’s helping to change lives one day at a time. #MentalHealth #WorldMentalHealthDay #CIRCLEProgram

Our Reedway Safe Rest Village in?Portland is expanding! We’ve doubled our shelter units from 60 to 120 and are proud to continue serving the needs of the community.?The Reedway team is ready to get to work and help guests on their journey toward permanent housing! #nonprofit #portland #housing

We’re excited to spotlight Kaesha, our newly promoted Director of Health and Wellness in Portland! ?Last week, Kaesha visited the Los Angeles Wellness Villages, CIRCLE program, and climate stations to learn directly from other leaders and practitioners about effectively running multiple facets of our work sites. Since joining us in April 2023, Kaesha’s leadership and dedication have led to several well-deserved promotions, showcasing her incredible ability to lead. We don’t just create jobs for returning citizens—we create?careers.?We're especially proud of our commitment to uplifting women leaders like Kaesha, ensuring they have the support to thrive. #WomenInLeadership #UrbanAlchemy #ReturningCitizens

Last week was big for us! We launched a partnership with Austin Community College to provide FREE HVAC training to 25 guests at our shelters and announced our expansion to City of Birmingham. Learn more about our latest efforts:?https://bit.ly/3MBxDpA?and?https://bit.ly/3XzktzN. #UrbanAlchemy #CommunityImpact #WorkforceDevelopment?

Austin Community College and Urban Alchemy are partnering on a new job training certification program to help those experiencing homelessness in Austin. Jala Washington explains how the program, focused on HVAC certification, will work.