What is LEAP?
In 2021, BCEH created the Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP): a leadership development body consisting of members with current or recent past experience of homelessness. The board serves as a platform for people who've experienced homelessness to provide meaningful input to improve Berks County's homeless response system, and has become a vital voice in informing policies and procedures for our Continuum of Care in Reading and Berks County.
Currently, LEAP includes several active members who bring a fresh perspective to homeless services, providing consultation and advocacy for improving our homeless response system.
How do I get involved?
We are looking for additional members! If you are someone with recent (past 7 years) or current lived experience or you know someone you would like to recommend, please reach out to elise@bceh.org. We would love to talk more with you about what LEAP is, and how it functions and to possibly join the panel!
What is LEAP Doing Now?
Currently, members of LEAP are involved with:
- Creating a new Coordinated Entry assessment tool
- Helping with the Point-in-Time Count
- Making funding decisions for the Continuum of Care Program Competition