The first week of August has somehow come and gone already and summer is almost over.
Right around the corner local schools will soon be starting their fall semesters. Not sure if I’m ready, to be honest. At least with the schools starting, AHO can begin scheduling meetings with alternative schools’ leadership classes and counselors. This way more at-risk students will know about AHO and all the personalized and comprehensive services and resources we offer.
Earlier this week Zara and I went to a Marin Organizing Committee (MOC) meeting where I was
introduced to Sister Marion Irvine from the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael who has been a
longtime supporter of AHO. Sister Marion lived up to everything I have heard about her: a quick-witted force to be reckoned with, a big heart, and a very kind demeanor. Overall, it was special for me to see so many local faith leaders working together to troubleshoot ways to get people aware of, and focused on, issues around affordable housing and the importance of voting in the upcoming election.
The MOC “getting folks out to vote” meeting strategy mainly focused on boots-on-the-ground
canvassing. Sometimes the canvassing method of getting your point across can be less effective than focusing on getting the message out through social media or community gatherings. These strategies allow people more time, and an opportunity for active discussion, to learn about, and understand, the issue. Canvassing can sometimes come across as invasive and it’s easier for people to not pay attention to what is being said, or to totally ignore someone showing up unannounced at their door. Overall, though, MOC strategy is a great first step to begin involving community leaders to help get November 5th affordable housing measures passed so Marin can receive the $700,000 dollars for increasing affordable housing opportunities in the County.
The two important affordable housing measures that need to be passed are: Proposition 5, and
Regional Measure 4 to lower the voting threshold for housing decisions to 55% which would
thereby greatly increase the chances of Marin County receiving the $700,000 award toward
affordable housing. These measures are coming up on the November 5th ballot and could
significantly change affordable housing opportunities in our community.
Go investigate these measures and learn for yourself!
Until next week,
Kayla