The SOAR Model as an Effective Mechanism for University–Community Partnerships to End Homelessness

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ABSTRACT

University social work programs can play a critical role in helping communities to expand local capacity in efforts to end homelessness. The Supplemental Security Income/Social Security Disability Insurance (SSI/SSDI) Outreach, Access and Recovery (SOAR) program is an evidence-based model that social work programs are advancing through university–community partnerships. SOAR seeks to prevent and end homelessness through increased access to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for people suffering from chronic homelessness and who also have a disability. This article uses a case study approach to describe an initiative of the National Center on Excellence in Homeless Services designed to use social work education as a mechanism to build local capacity for using SOAR.

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Notes on contributors

Jen Elder

Linda Plitt Donaldson, PhD, MSW, is associate dean and professor of social work at James Madison University. Calvin L. Streeter, PhD, MSW, is professor at University of Texas at Austin. Heather Larkin, PhD, MSW, is associate professor at the University at Albany (SUNY). Katharine Briar-Lawson, PhD, MSW, is professor and dean emeritus at the University at Albany (SUNY). Nancy Meyer-Adams, PhD, MSW, is interim associate dean for faculty affairs and research, CHHS director and professor, at California State University–Long Beach. Kristin Lupfer, MSW, is project director at SAMHSA SOAR TA Center, Policy Research Associates, Inc. Jen Elder, MSc, is assistant director at SAMHSA SOAR TA Center, Policy Research Associates, Inc. Angela Grimshaw is an MSW student at the University at Albany (SUNY).