On July 18, 2013, MHSA supporters gathered for a sold-out reception on the rooftop level of Market Lounge in Boston, raising funds to support the Massachusetts Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau.
The event featured Speakers’ Bureau member Liz Perry, whose shared her powerful story about her experience with homelessness and highlighted the importance of housing in her life today. Attendees enjoyed the beautiful summer evening weather on the rooftop over refreshing drinks and appetizers, networking with new acquaintances and reconnecting with old colleagues.
The reception celebrated the third year of the Speakers’ Bureau, which empowers currently and formerly homeless individuals to share their stories and advocate for housing. Members of the Speakers’ Bureau travel to communities across Massachusetts, breaking down stereotypes and engaging community members in efforts to end homelessness. The Speakers’ Bureau also operates an Ending Homelessness Leadership Development Program, a nine-week, workshop-based program that provides individuals who have experienced homelessness the opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills so they can actively participate as informed advocates on MHSA member agency boards throughout the Commonwealth.
Visit the MHSA Picasa page to view photos from the reception! MHSA extends our thanks to the many member agencies, local businesses and individuals who sponsored and supported the event.
Special thanks to this year’s Build Leadership sponsor, Heading Home!
