Build Up Roc Housing Initiative Phase 2
Phase 1 is complete which culminated with the reveal of the Rochester Area Housing Analysis in August. We will continue to share next steps for Phase 2 throughout the coming months. Questions may be directed to AutismUp's Education and Advocacy Director, hburroughs@autismup.org. Join us for our Housing Speaker Series in in 2025 as we begin to address the results and take steps to Build Up Roc.
Next Steps/Phase 2:
We’re moving full steam ahead! Thanks to everyone who joined our Local Leaders Workshop—your energy was incredible. Let’s keep that momentum going! Here’s where we stand with Phase 1 and where you can jump in:
- Collect Data: Complete ✔
- Present Preliminary Data: Complete ✔
- Analyze Data & Prepare Final Report: Complete ✔
- Present Final Report: January 28, 2025
- Create Housing Task Force: In Progress
About the Housing Task Force:
We’re forming a Housing Task Force to advocate for diverse, inclusive housing options for people with IDD in New York State. This is a hands-on opportunity to roll up your sleeves and make real change! We’re seeking self-advocates, families, providers, investors, developers, officials, and anyone passionate about this cause, to participate in online discussions that will shape advocacy efforts, help affect legislative and policy changes and connect us with critical readers as we refine our report. No “expertise” needed—just a willingness to engage, share experiences, and drive solutions.
If you’re ready to make an impact, please complete our survey to share your level of commitment and ideas. Together, we can create innovative housing solutions that meet the needs of our community!
Phase 1 Summary:
The Build Up Roc Housing Initiative is gaining momentum, and we're thrilled to bring you the latest updates. Check out the information that follows for more information and our projected timeline, and a big shoutout to our current lead sponsors: Ability Partners, Al Sigl, Arc, Golisano Foundation, Lifetime Assistance, Heritage Christian, Homesteads for Hope, People Inc., Person Centered Services and Starbridge. These sponsors aren't just funding the cost of this analysis; they're active participants in the process, investing their time, resources, and talent. We're incredibly grateful for their support.
Overview: Accessible and suitable housing options are scarce in our region, especially for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. AutismUp is gearing up to launch a groundbreaking comprehensive housing analysis for Rochester. Partnering with First Place, a highly respected company with a proven track record of similar successful analyses nationwide, we aim to identify what's working, pinpoint common housing obstacles, and, most importantly, understand the community's vision for the future. The final report will be instrumental in shaping legislation, removing barriers, securing funding, and, hopefully, bringing hope to families who are rightfully worried about the future.
Project Management: While AutismUp has no plans to develop housing, we serve over 3,700 families, many of whom are desperate for more viable housing options in our area, which drives this initiative. To decrease participation burden, we're taking the lead on managing the details, collecting sponsorships, and ensuring we stick to our timeline. Thanks to the pledges and commitments we've received, covering approximately half of the total cost, we were able to book First Place. However, we're still seeking additional funding. Please see the attachments for details on becoming a sponsor. Your support will help ensure this analysis gets completed. Families do not need to sponsor this initiative to participate, but some have, highlighting Rochester's commitment to solving the housing crisis.
Timeline: Please refer to the attached timeline for an overview of this analysis. We completed informational sessions in April and are NOW taking registrations for the Educate & Empower SURVEY SESSIONS that will be held in June. This is a call to action to participate and have your voice be heard. Our goal is for everyone to feel welcome and to take "their seat at the table." This collaboration with families is a unique opportunity to build a foundation for a better future. We have a committed team of community members who understand the project's importance and are inspired to recruit others to attend our empower and educate sessions. This comprehensive approach offers hope for a better future. PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR SURVEY SESSIONS DATES AND LINKS TO THE MEETINGS IN JUNE.
