Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce: Unhoused Population Features Study

Paso Robles

Unhoused Population Futures Study

By Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce

Our Roblans understand that a strong vision can ensure success and growth for our community for years to come. Our City is made of innovative entrepreneurs with an eye toward the future, caring individuals working to make a difference in the lives of others today, and families deeply rooted in the City’s history — and each of us shares a commitment to making a positive impact for the next generation. However, we know that to do so, the work needs to start now.

Your Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Paso Robles, has embarked on a new initiative to explore and analyze homelessness within our community by implementing the Paso Robles Unhoused Population Futures Study. We have invited members of our community with diverse identities, beliefs, and lived experiences to participate in a facilitated study as we look beyond what is occurring now to ascertain how the challenges posed by homelessness in our community will manifest itself in the future. We know this is an ambitious goal, so what exactly is planned?

Our partner organizations are currently working diligently to minimize the impact of homelessness on our community and support those who are unhoused. The Futures Study will complement these meaningful and compassionate efforts by pairing community input with long-term analysis and providing suggested actions validated by detailed research. This will be a guided process led by an independent consultant taking place from March through May, culminating in a report submitted to the Paso Robles City Council.

Futures Studies are robust, holistic, and systematic ways to evaluate how past and present events have impacted trends related to a challenge. As we learn historically how events and trends became interconnected, we can anticipate how future events may or may not shape trends moving forward. From this understanding, the study can develop realistic future scenarios regarding homelessness that can be used to support the City’s strategic planning and next steps.

A diverse group of community members will share thoughts and ideas representative of our entire community, and all those with a vested interest in the topic were invited to apply to join the study sessions and meetings. During March, April and May, they will brainstorm, conduct independent research, and participate in facilitated group discussions.

Chamber President and CEO, Gina Fitzpatrick said, “As Roblans, we’re committed to strengthening our community and addressing the unique challenges we face together. This study will bring together diverse thoughts and perspectives on the topic of homelessness and offer solution-oriented recommendations for the future. As the Chamber of Commerce, we appreciate the City’s commitment toward this important work and believe their action in taking a vested interest in this study speaks volumes.”

We look forward to keeping our community informed as the study progresses. 