Education Advocacy

Joppa strives to educate the community about the root causes of homelessness.

Ending homelessness begins with awareness and discussion. Joppa educates the community—from adults to kids—about the root causes of homelessness, which helps build understanding and overcome perceptions and stigmas associated with homelessness.

Joppa Signature Events:

To raise awareness about homelessness in our community, Joppa organizes signature events throughout the year:

• Joppa Annual Gala
• Iowa Homeless Memorial
• Homeless Christmas Celebration

See all upcoming events.

Presentations:

Joppa staff and trained volunteers are available to give presentations (virtual or in-person) on the state of homelessness in Central Iowa and how Joppa is working to prevent and ultimately end homelessness. These presentations can be virtual or in-person at local organization meetings, K-12 classrooms, colleges and universities, discussion groups, workplaces and more.

We also organize the following education/advocacy events:

• Speaking engagements
• Lunch & Learns
• Community events
• Joppa Center tours

Advocacy:

Joppa is dedicated to advocating on behalf of the homeless in the community. As part of these efforts, we actively participate in the Street Outreach Coalition, community awareness events, and meetings with city, county and state officials.

Additional Resources:

• National Coalition for the Homeless
• National Alliance to End Homelessness
• National Center for Homeless Education
• National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty
• Institute for Community Alliances