HOPE outreach specialists are certified Behavioral Health Technicians, with a depth of experience working with homeless populations. Some on the team have lived experience, meaning they have been personally impacted by homelessness.

Our specialists work with individuals and families daily and provide services to keep them housed or to rapidly rehouse them. Services include:

• Assistance obtaining an Arizona ID, birth certificate or social security card
• Provision of basic necessities such as food, water, toiletries and bus passes
• Connections to mental health resources and medical care
• Connections to employment resources and the city's Tempe Works jobs program
• Referrals to emergency shelter provided through partner nonprofits
• Placement in the city's motel shelter and the city's Emergency Unit program in collaboration with CARE 7
• Housing planning and navigation to secure permanent housing
• Coordinating heat relief services during intense summer months
• Reuniting those in need with family members in and out of state

In addition, HOPE team members play a vital role assisting individuals involved in Mental Health Court, addressing homeless encampments in the community, and conducting the annual Point-in-Time homeless count. Along with Human Services staff, HOPE team members identify needs and trends and assist in creating solutions.

The HOPE team has a long-standing partnership with Tempe's Parks Officer Program. These specially-trained officers engage those who are experiencing homelessness, respond to homeless encampments, address community issues, help conduct the annual Point-in-Time homeless count and more.

HOPE outreach specialists and parks officers are out in the community every day assisting those in need and addressing community concerns.

This collaborative work - along with the additional layer of park security from the private security force G4S - has enhanced engagement with those in need and improved the feeling of safety in city parks and public spaces.