Session Descriptions

Download a PDF of the schedule at a glance here.

Session Title: The FY 2027 Budget: Opportunity for Input on Budget Priorities

Presenter(s): Anna Plumb (she/her), Antoinette Payne (she/her), Emily Nelson (she/her) & Kanoe Egleston (she/her) – Homeless Services Department

Presentation Format: Listening and/or Problem Solving session

Abstract: This interactive session is geared towards organizational leaders, but open to anyone interested. It will be an opportunity for current and future providers to contribute to the department’s FY 2027 budget submission. Participants will be provided with a general overview of the County’s budget process including when and who makes budget decisions. Participants will understand the multiple factors that drive budget decisions including strategic plans, direction from elected officials, funder requirements and limitations, and alignment with the department’s mission, values and core scope of services. Participants will work in small groups to prioritize the departments 4 strategic approaches (Keep people housed, Sustain shelter units, Prioritize housing placement, Add shelter units in alignment with the Community-wide Shelter Strategy) and identify and elevate factors they recommend for consideration within the 4 strategic approaches. The session will close with clarity on how input will be used in decisions and the department’s submission and any additional opportunities for community members and organizations to provide input on the budget process. **NOTE: this session is centered on the development of the budget, and will not address specific contract awards or allocations.

Conference Track(s): Leadership in Challenging Times, Emerging Needs and Opportunities

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/FY-2026-October-HSD-Provider-Conference-__-Provider-Input-Session.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/HSD-Provider-Conference-Fall-2025-Budget-Session-Notes-.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-FY-2027-HSD-Budget-__-Opportunity-for-Input.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/Bciyy6qJSQU

Session Title: Sustaining Housing Through Employment

Presenter(s): Jennifer Fox (she/her) & Ernesta Ingeleviciute (she/her) – Worksystems; Antaniqua Clay (she/her) – Central City Concern; David Rodriguez (he/him) – Latino Network; Debra Carabajal (she/her) – Our Just Future; Elizabeth Jimenz (she/her) – IRCO; Savannah Burdick (she/her) – POIC

Presentation Format: Panel Discussion

Abstract: A Home for Everyone (AHFE) is an Economic Opportunity Program (EOP) that empowers participants who are homeless or at risk of homelessness to obtain unsubsidized employment. Learn how five different community-based organizations partner with Worksystems to run the program and get results! The panel will share program design and outcomes, as well as best practices from the field.

Conference Track(s): Frontline Strategies and Best Practices, Leadership in Challenging Times

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Sustaining-Housing-Through-Employment.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/HSD-Provider-Conference-Fall-2025-Notes-Sustaining-Through-Employment.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Sustaining-Housing-Through-Employment.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/wrSLqmUmzk4

Session Title: Cybernetics, Music, Recovery

Presenter(s): Zeke Martin-Brunkhart (he/him) – Portland Street Response

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: Cybernetics helps us see how feedback and regulation happen within and between systems. Music, created in every culture across time, offers a direct way to shift mood, build connection, make meaning, and support change. Recovery, meanwhile, is always a personal process – no two paths are the same. This workshop introduces a simple, practice-based tool that uses music in a consensual, cybernetic way to support peer-based recovery. Together we will explore how music can be applied in real-world crisis and post-crisis settings, with practical applications participants can use immediately in their own work and personal lives.

Conference Track(s): Frontline Strategies and Best Practices

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Cybernetics-Music-and-Recovery.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Cybernetics-music-and-recovery.Notes_.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Cybernetics-Music-Recovery.pdf

NOTE: this session was not recorded

Session Title: Homeless Response System and HRAP 2.0

Presenter(s): Ryan Deibert (he/him), Robyn Johnson (she/they/Robyn) – Homeless Response System; Members of the HRS Community Advisory Committee

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: The Homeless Response System team will present a near final draft of the reorganized Homelessness Response Action Plan and new key performance indicators for the Homelessness Response System. The session will show those who participated in the engagement in the spring of 2025 how their input and prioritization was woven into this iteration of the plan. This session will include a emerging issues discussion led by the HRS Community Advisory Committee.

Conference Track(s): Leadership in Challenging Times

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Provider-Conference-HRAP-2.0-Engagement-_10_2025.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/HSD-Provider-Conference-Fall-2025-Notes-HRS-and-HRAP-2.0.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Homeless-Response-System-and-HRAP-2.0.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/Nr146KFjx68

 

Session Title: Emerging insights from the Pathways study: An interactive session

Presenter(s): Desiree’ J DuBoise (she/they) & Kathleen P Conte (she/her) – PSU Homelessness Research and Action Collaborative, Hollie Spriggs (she/her), Fawn Hakert (she/her) & Crystal Magaña (she/her) – T.R.E.E.S. Lived Experience Committee

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: The Pathways Lived Experience Committee along with PSU researchers will present initial findings from qualitative interviews as well as priorities for next steps. This presentation will be interactive and engage the provider audience in discussing various pathways for people experiencing houselessness. We have identified some of the gaps in the story so far and would like to work with the audience to identify further areas of exploration.

Conference Track(s): The Power of Lived Experience, Emerging Needs and Opportunities

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Emerging-insights-from-the-Pathways-stu.teractive-session.v2.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/The-Pathways-Study-Provider-Conference-Fall-2025-Notes.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Emerging-insights-from-the-Pathways-study_-An-interactive-session.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/WLYeuoK7_U4

 

Session Title: Building Resiliency in our Staff: Introduction to a debriefing model for addressing moral injury

Presenter(s): Drew Grabham (he/him) – Central City Concern

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: This interactive session will 1) Discuss the importance of addressing staff moral injury, 2). introduction to the STAR-T model, 3) begin/continue your organizations plan for supporting staff when they have deep impacts from their outreach work

Conference Track(s): Leadership in Challenging Times, Emerging Needs and Opportunities

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Building-Resiliency-in-our-Staff-Introduction-to-a-debriefing-model-for-addressing-moral-injury.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Building-Resiliency-in-our-Staff_-a-debriefing-model-for-addressing-moral-injury.Notes_.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Building-Resiliency-in-our-Staff_-Introduction-to-a-debriefing-model-for-addressing-moral-injury.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/0HuMro3UUtw

Session Title: Regional Training Opportunities for Housing Service Providers

Presenter(s): Cole Merkel (he/him), Justin Barrieault (he/him), Melia Deters (she/her) – Metro Regional Capacity Team

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: Join Metro Housing’s Regional Capacity Team to learn about the training initiatives being developed for SHS provider staff. During this session, we will discuss the Housing Training Academy that is being developed in partnership with Portland Community College, discuss on-demand virtual training opportunities that are available immediately, and highlight the Metro Training Resource webpage. Workshop attendees will also be given the chance to provide feedback on the programming that is being developed as well as identify additional training needs that these initiatives don’t address.

Conference Track(s): Frontline Strategies and Best Practices

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Regional-Training-Opportunities-for-Housing-Service-Providers.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/HSD-Provider-Conference-Fall-2025-Notes-Regional-Training-Opportunities-for-Housing-Service-Providers.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Regional-Training-Opportunities-for-Housing-Service-Providers.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/lu88UJn9EuA

 

Session Title: Behavioral Health: Care Navigation & Crisis Response

Presenter(s): Cheryl Lemley (she/her) – Multnomah County Behavioral Health; Lisa Stewart (she/her) Amber Rollins (she/her) & Brian Jacoby (he/him) – Project Respond (Cascadia Health); Caroline Pope (she/her) – Portland Street Response

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: This session focuses on critical behavioral health resources: the Behavioral Health Call Center, Portland Street Response, and Project Respond. These resources can support housing providers and clients by providing recommendations, referrals, or crisis services. The session will also include information on mobile crisis response services from Portland Street Response and Project Respond.

Conference Track(s): Frontline Strategies and Best Practices

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Behavioral-Health-Care-Navigation-Crisis-Response.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Behavioral-Health-Care-Navigation-Crisis-Response.Notes_.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Behavioral-Health_-Care-Navigation-Crisis-Response.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/YORw3I4oT-E

 

Session Title: Know Your Rights for Service Providers

Presenter(s): Latino Network

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: Latino Network has developed a concise Know Your Rights and resource presentation designed to support staff initiate conversations about workplace safety protocols in the event that federal agents attempt to enter their facilities to conduct immigration enforcement actions.

Conference Track(s): Frontline Strategies and Best Practices, Leadership in Challenging Times, Emerging Needs and Opportunities

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Know-Your-Rights-for-Service-Providers-Provider-Conference-Fall-2025-Notes.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Know-Your-Rights-for-Service-Providers.pdf

NOTE: this session did not have presentation slides and was not recorded

Session Title: Healthcare: Using Medicaid Care Coordination to Connect Clients to Care

Presenter(s): Adam Peterson (he/him) – Health Share of Oregon

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: This session focuses on care coordination for Medicaid members. Care Coordination is a service available for physical, dental and behavioral health needs for people on the Oregon Health Plan. This valuable services connects people with unmet health needs to the services that will meet those needs. Join Health Share of Oregon representatives to learn how to navigate the Medicaid system, and get connected to the this collaborative service.

Conference Track(s): Frontline Strategies and Best Practices

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Healthcare-Using-Medicaid-Care-Coordination-to-Connect-Clients-to-Care.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Healthcare-Using-Medicaid-Care-Coordination-to-Connect-Clients-to-Care.Notes_.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Healthcare_-Using-Medicaid-Care-Coordination-to-Connect-Clients-to-Care.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/99HXRW72gKI

 

Session Title: From Shelter to Sanctuary: Healing While Housing

Presenter(s): Leor Beverly, Dahana Louis (she/her), Caprice Howard & Andrea Smith – Urban League of Portland

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: From Shelter to Sanctuary: Healing While Housing explores the transformative power of Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) when paired with culturally specific, trauma-informed, and integrated services. Drawing from the Urban League of Portland’s experience, this session highlights how housing stability is only the first step—true healing requires intentional service coordination, peer support, and emotional restoration. The presentation will offer insights into bridging the gap between being housed and being healed, emphasizing the importance of lived experience, community voice, and holistic care in PSH environments.

Conference Track(s): The Power of Lived Experience

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/From-Shelter-to-Sanctuary.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Session-Notes_-From-Shelter-to-Sanctuary_-Healing-While-Housing.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-From-Shelter-to-Sanctuary_-Healing-While-Housing.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/6ubmWquujLk

 

Session Title: Increasing Lived Experience and Expertise involvement in our homeless response system

Presenter(s): Members of the Portland / Multnomah Community of Practice

Presentation Format: Collaborative presentation with discussion

Abstract: As more challenges mount against the homeless response system, it is more important than ever to center the voices, experience and expertise on people experiencing homelessness and utilizing system services. Since October 2024, a Community of Practice consisting of people with lived expertise and experience of homelessness has been meeting to explore ways to increase voices of people with lived and living experience of homelessness in our work. Members of the CoP will share about their work and explore ways people with lived experience and expertise can advocate more and participate more in the decisions that impact their lives.

Conference Track(s): The Power of Lived Experience

Presentation Slides: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Increasing-Lived-Experience-and-Expertise-involvement-in-our-homeless-response-system.pdf

Presentation Notes: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/HSD-Provider-Conference-Fall-2025-Notes-Increasing-Lived-Experience-and-Expertise-involvement-in-our-homeless-response-system-1.pdf

Presentation Evaluation: https://hsd.multco.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Evaluation-for-the-Session_-Increasing-Lived-Experience-and-Expertise-involvement-in-our-homeless-response-system.pdf

Link for Recording: https://youtu.be/mzRmst_xuko