by Ronin Conroy | Sep 20, 2024
Research: Affordable Housing Challenges
Student: Ronin Conroy
Professor: Guidance provided by Assistant Professor Spencer Couts of the University of Southern California.
Abstract: Why is Affordable Housing in California Not So Affordable?
This paper identifies the barriers to affordable housing development in Los Angeles, focusing on financial and regulatory challenges. Although California houses 12% of the U.S. population, it accounts for 30% of the nation’s homeless, with over 171,000 people unsheltered in 2023. Affordable housing aims to provide financially manageable residences for low- and moderate-income families, but development faces significant obstacles. This paper explores the primary drivers of high costs, comparing publicly funded projects to those with private equity. Extended regulatory processes, costly permits, impact fees, and restrictive zoning make California’s projects more expensive and time-consuming than those in other states.
To address these challenges, streamlining regulations, reducing fees, and incentivizing development are essential. Publicly funded projects are often much costlier than private ones, making many economically unfeasible. Without changes, resolving the housing crisis could take decades. While temporary efforts like utilizing low-occupancy hotels and purchasing motels are helpful, long-term solutions must be expedited.
Use the link below to access the full research:
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1Oki4s8MTNlrnSbnJol9QwRw0Rw1MneYX
by Ronin Conroy | Aug 31, 2024
We are proud to collaborate with the Salvation Army, an organization whose tireless efforts continue to uplift those in need. Today, we are thrilled to announce that GenNexus has donated over 40 clothing items to the Salvation Army, which will be distributed to the homeless in our community.
As the colder months approach, we recognize the urgent need for warm clothing among vulnerable populations. Our ongoing efforts to collect and donate warm clothing will play a crucial role in helping those facing difficult circumstances stay safe and warm during the winter.
A special thank you to Ernesto Madrid, the Salvation Army Social Service Manager, for his hospitality and guidance. We look forward to our continued partnership.
by Ronin Conroy | May 2, 2024
As GenNexus continues to grow and work toward our mission of raising awareness about homelessness through charitable support, community events, and educational blogs, we know that collaboration is key to making a bigger impact. Over the past year, we’ve worked hard to create change in our communities. Now, to expand our reach and be more effective, we’re setting a new goal: building partnerships with larger organizations that share our mission. These partnerships will allow us to connect with bigger networks and learn from organizations that have already made great strides. By teaming up, we can combine our strengths to better address the challenges of homelessness.
One of our main focuses is to find and connect with organizations that are as dedicated as we are to supporting homeless individuals and communities. Through these partnerships, we hope to create a space where we can share resources, ideas, and successful practices on a larger scale. This will help GenNexus grow and increase our ability to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. As we move forward, we’re committed to our values of compassion, education, and community involvement. We believe that by working together, we can make an even greater impact on the issue of homelessness.
by Ronin Conroy | Mar 22, 2024
Homelessness is a complex issue, deeply intertwined with mental health, substance abuse, and economic instability. To address this crisis effectively, it is crucial to understand the root causes and the interplay between these factors.
The relationship between mental health and homelessness is particularly significant. Untreated mental health conditions such as depression, PTSD, and schizophrenia can impair an individual’s ability to maintain employment and stable housing, often leading to homelessness. Conversely, the experience of homelessness can exacerbate or even trigger these conditions, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to escape.
Substance abuse, whether involving illegal or prescription drugs, further complicates this issue. Addiction can lead to the loss of jobs, relationships, and housing. For those already homeless, substance abuse often becomes a means of coping with the harsh realities of street life, further entrenching them in a state of homelessness. The availability of drugs, coupled with limited access to rehabilitation services, exacerbates the problem.
Economic factors, particularly inflation and the affordability of housing, are also critical drivers of homelessness. As the cost of living rises while wages stagnate, many individuals and families struggle to afford basic necessities, including housing. This financial strain can push those living on the edge into homelessness, with the lack of affordable housing options making it increasingly difficult to regain stability.
To effectively combat homelessness, a multifaceted approach that targets these root causes is essential. Expanding access to mental health and substance abuse services is crucial, as is increasing the availability of affordable housing. Additionally, policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and ensuring wages keep pace with the cost of living are vital.
One promising strategy is the “Housing First” model, which prioritizes providing stable housing as a foundation for addressing mental health and substance abuse issues. This approach, combined with comprehensive health and social services, offers a more sustainable solution for breaking the cycle of homelessness. In conclusion, homelessness cannot be solved with temporary fixes.
By addressing the root causes—mental health challenges, substance abuse, and economic instability—we can develop sustainable solutions that provide individuals with the stability and support needed to rebuild their lives.
by Ronin Conroy | Feb 19, 2024
Why volunteer? Here are some reasons:
1.Make a Difference: Volunteering gives you the opportunity to directly impact the lives of others. Whether it’s lending a hand at a local shelter, tutoring a student, or planting trees in a park, every action you take makes a difference.
2.Build Connections: Volunteering is a great way to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for making the world a better place. You’ll forge new friendships and strengthen existing ones.
3.Gain Perspective: Volunteering exposes you to different perspectives and experiences, broadening your understanding of the world around you. By stepping outside your comfort zone and engaging with diverse communities, you’ll develop empathy and compassion.
4.Develop Skills: Volunteering offers valuable opportunities for personal and professional development. Whether you’re honing your leadership abilities, improving your communication skills, or learning new technical skills, volunteering provides hands-on experience that can enhance your resume and boost your confidence.
5.Feel Good: There’s no denying the feel-good factor that comes from helping others. Volunteering can improve your mood, reduce stress, and increase your overall sense of well-being. The simple act of giving back can bring immense joy and fulfillment.
6.Inspire Others: By volunteering, you serve as a role model for others in your community. Your actions inspire others to get involved and make a difference, creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond your own efforts.
