We recently convened our  second Collaboratory to explore  a challenge we heard again and again from people with lived experience, nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and community partners: while people with lived experience are increasingly invited into decision-making, too few people receive the support needed to step into leadership in ways that are sustainable, authentic, and impactful. Systems designed to address homelessness and many other challenges are often shaped without the sustained leadership of those most impacted. Thus, the idea of the Wisdom Collective was born. 

The Wisdom Collective is a leadership development program for people with lived experience of homelessness or housing instability who are ready to deepen their leadership journey. Rather than focusing primarily on technical leadership skills, the program helps participants build the internal foundation that makes lasting leadership possible. Through a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, participants develop greater self-trust, confidence, voice, wellbeing, and agency while learning to navigate institutions, influence systems, and lead in ways that are authentic to who they are.

Together, we are cultivating a new generation of leaders whose lived expertise is recognized not simply as a story to be shared, but as wisdom essential to designing stronger, more responsive, and more human-centered communities.

The Community Resource Connection Hub, located in the Westwood Community Center (1000 S Lowell Blvd) offers free, one-on-one support to help neighbors find and connect with the resources they need. The Hub staff understand what you’re going through and are there to listen and help you take the next steps—whether that’s staying in your home or regaining stability. Services are free and offered in English and Spanish.