Earlier this month, EBHO held a learning session and mixer with the UC Berkeley School of Public Health where UC Berkeley students and university faculty had the opportunity to learn more about EBHO’s legacy, impact, and current legislative priorities at the local, state, and federal levels; as well as gain insights into the intersection between health and housing, and ways to bridge conversations and advocacy across both fields.
In addition to the thoughtful discussions, guests enjoyed delicious food and drinks while connecting with members of the EBHO team. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of educating residents, advocates, and voters on the value of affordable housing, ensuring that more voices—especially those directly impacted by the housing crisis—are included in shaping equitable housing policy.
A huge thank you to Fred Dillon, the Director of Social Impact Partnerships and Strategy at UC Berkeley School of Public Health, and his amazing team for hosting EBHO and for their hard work in planning this event!
Keep reading for more highlights from our time together at the UC Berkeley School of Public Health!
Panel discussion and learning session with members of the EBHO team: Membership Associate, Lavender Briscoe; Suburban Organizer, Davina Srioudom; Policy Manager, Megan Nguyen; Communications Manager, Kate Young; Operations Associate, Briseida Ayala Rodriguez; Board President, William Goodwin; and Chief Program Officer, Rev. Sophia DeWitt
Learning Session Highlights
We kicked off the event with a crash course in Housing Advocacy 101, led by our Chief Program Officer, Rev. Sophia DeWitt, who walked us through EBHO’s mission, our “3 Ps” framework (Production, Preservation, and Protection), and the transformative work of our advocacy committees—especially in Berkeley! Kate Young, EBHO’s Communications Manager, shared how place-based factors can be a strong determinant of health, and how putting our communities first in every step of the city planning, architecture, and development process can help build healthier communities.
Next, our Policy Manager, Megan Nguyen, discussed EBHO’s housing policy wins, challenges, and regional efforts like the Berkeley’s Tenants Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA), the North Berkeley BART Affordable Housing developments, and Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing. We also learned about the grassroots power of our Contra Costa team and the role of community organizing in building momentum across the region from Davina Srioudom, EBHO’s Suburban Organizer.
Lastly, William Goodwin centered the discussion with a heartfelt retelling of his personal story as the EBHO Board President and resident of affordable housing, sharing how leadership opportunities like Residents United Network (RUN) and EBHO’s Leadership Academy empowered him to use his voice in advocating for more equitable housing solutions across the East Bay and greater California.
This learning session highlighted how the lack of safe, affordable, and stable housing can have direct negative impacts on individual and community health. Key factors such as accessibility, environmental quality, walkability, and proximity to essential services like public transportation, healthcare, and healthy food options are foundational to equitable health outcomes; thus, underscoring the urgent need for policies that prioritize housing justice.
One of the most common questions asked during the Q&A was, “How can someone find affordable housing?” This opened up a conversation around navigating complex housing systems and the need for more accessible information in finding housing. At EBHO, we understand how difficult it is to find an affordable home, but knowing your options can increase your chances. You can access EBHO’s Affordable Housing Resource Guide online at ebho.org/looking-for-housing. If you or someone you know is looking for immediate housing in Alameda or Contra Costa County, we recommend calling 2-1-1, visiting the 211 Alameda County Housing Portal, exploring the Contra Costa Conservation & Development Resource Page, or going to the Doorway Housing Portal for assistance.