Sofia Petrulla

• Researched federal, state, and local government funding sources for different homeless initiatives including dropin centers, emergency shelters, transitional housing, and rapid rehousing.

• Interacted and learned highly effective practices from local service providers and agencies providing linkages, resources, and stability for individuals experiencing homelessness.

• Learned about the systems of Continuum of Care and HMIS and how to enforce and foster collaboration amongst community agencies to improve on gaps in services.

• Became familiar with the trends, demographics, and other statistics regarding youth homelessness.

• Developed a comprehensive “how-to” business plan for a transition aged youth Drop-In Center that will be available for any organization to be used in the construction and operation of such a center.

Being immersed in the greater Buffalo community by attending several events and activities with other Fellows throughout the summer.

Becoming aware of persistent inequality in the city of Buffalo and becoming more passionate about solving these issues through discussion, raising awareness, and community action.

Human Resources, corporate social responsibility, social enterprises, volunteering, music, art, trying new foods, plants, stickers, politics.

Microsoft Office, marketing, communication, problem solving, team-oriented. Juggling, playing the bassoon, camping.

What is an Equity Based Outcome for Homelessness?