This homeless employment initiative helps solve more than one social problem at the same time. In the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, a van picks up homeless people and pays them to help beautify public areas in the community. Mayor Richard Berry partnered with non-profit organization St Martin's Hospitality Centre to launch the There's a Better Way program.
The van drives around and picks up any homeless individuals interested in being paid $9 USD an hour to help clean the city. In addition to offering above minimum wage, the employment initiative also provides the homeless with lunch as well as shelter access when the day is done. The van can take 10 people a day, with high demand increasing the number of days from two to four a week.
Homeless-Employing Vans
This Employment Initiative Pays the Homeless to Clean the Community
Trend Themes
1. Homeless Employment Initiatives - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating employment opportunities for the homeless by partnering with non-profit organizations and offering above minimum wage.
2. Socially Responsible Community Cleaning - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing programs that involve homeless individuals in community beautification projects, addressing both social and environmental issues.
3. Increased Support for Homeless Individuals - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Implementing initiatives that not only provide employment but also offer supportive services like food, shelter access, and other resources to improve the lives of the homeless population.
Industry Implications
1. Non-profit Organizations - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Partnering with non-profit organizations to create employment programs for the homeless and improve community well-being.
2. Hospitality and Community Services - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrating homeless individuals into community services and hospitality jobs, contributing to their socio-economic integration and well-being.
3. Environmental Services - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborating with homeless individuals in environmental cleaning and beautification projects, creating employment opportunities and addressing community needs.