Help the Unhoused at VCU

"Homelessness is a situation, not an identity".

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About Us

The systematic corruption of our government and the institutional racism embedded in society have caused unequal opportunity for many people of different social groups to succeed. In particular, the intersection between race and socioeconomic status can explain much about the levels of homelessness within a community.

The mission of Help the Unhoused at VCU is to advocate for the vulnerable individuals who are experiencing the hardships of homelessness in the Richmond community, especially with the recent eviction crisis. Passive means of aid are only a temporary solution to supporting these individuals. Help the Homeless strives to focus more on active means of aid, such as an emphasis on educational and occupational opportunities to encourage self-sustainment for long-term results.

The misconstrued labels of homelessness, such as drug-addicts, convicts, and bums have deprived individuals of the necessary support and resources to help them out of poverty. Now more than ever do we need to educate others and use our own unique privilege to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves.

Join Help the Unhoused at VCU where you can make an active difference in someone else's life!

Membership Benefits

Members will acquire potential leadership positions that can contribute to an impressive resume and accumulate unique community service hours by working directly with individuals experiencing homelessness in the Richmond area. In addition, members will learn effective advocacy skills that are applicable in future academic, social, and political events. After serving at least one full academic term on the executive board, members can earn one Help the Homeless graduation cord. General members will be able to purchase a graduation cord for $4 from our organization.

This organization does not restrict membership based on race, color, religion, national origin (including ethnicity), age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), parenting status, marital status, political affiliation, military status (including veteran status), genetic information (including family medical history), sexual orientation, gender identify, gender expression, or disability. All VCU students who support the mission of our organization are welcome to participate in programs and events.

Our Goals

Evolving with the Richmond community

Emphasize educational and occupational opportunities to encourage self-sustainment.

Create partnerships and network opportunities to amplify results of our mission.

Organize fundraisers and drives to provide essential items to nearby individuals and shelters.

Provide workshops to educate students on current issues in the community and how to effectively advocate.

Remove the stigma of homelessness through education and collaboration with other VCU groups and Richmond organizations.

Encourage students to use their own unique privilege to advocate for those who struggle to or cannot advocate for themselves.