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This episode of Milwaukee’s Philanthropic Community explores the realities of homelessness in southeastern Wisconsin and the organizations working every day to help individuals and families find stability, housing, and hope. Host Jill Economou is joined by Kathleen Fisher, CEO of Hebron Housing Services, the largest nonprofit provider serving unhoused men, women, and children in Waukesha County.
Kathleen shares how Hebron Housing Services supports people throughout every stage of their housing journey, from emergency shelter and crisis intervention to transitional housing, rent assistance, permanent supportive housing, and long-term case management. The conversation explores the growing challenges facing families and individuals experiencing homelessness, including the shortage of affordable housing, rising living costs, and changing policy landscapes.
Listeners will learn how Hebron has adapted its programs to increase successful housing outcomes, including innovative shelter models, landlord partnerships, master lease agreements, and youth homelessness initiatives. Kathleen also shares powerful personal stories that illustrate the life-changing impact of stable housing, compassionate support, and community collaboration.
The discussion highlights common misconceptions about homelessness, the importance of housing-first strategies, and the critical role communities play in helping individuals and families find a path toward long-term stability.
1:55 | Hebron Housing Services' mission and the continuum of services it provides
3:38 | The biggest factors contributing to homelessness, including affordable housing shortages and rising costs
6:27 | Why Housing First remains a proven strategy for ending homelessness
8:23 | How Hebron remains financially sustainable while responding to growing needs
9:27 | Program innovations that significantly increased successful housing outcomes
12:20 | Creative partnerships with landlords and strategies to expand housing opportunities
15:21 | The dedicated staff behind Hebron's success and the importance of trauma-informed care
19:50 | Kathleen's personal journey and the experiences that shape her leadership
23:16 | A powerful success story that highlights the impact of community support and housing stability
26:10 | Reaching functional zero youth homelessness and transforming lives through the Youth Housing Program
29:17 | Common misconceptions about homelessness and what people often get wrong
31:26 | What gives Kathleen hope and how community members can help support the mission
Hebron Housing Services provides emergency shelter, housing assistance, supportive services, and homelessness prevention programs for individuals and families throughout Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington, and Jefferson counties. Through a housing-first approach, the organization works to help people quickly move from homelessness into stable, permanent housing while providing the support needed for long-term success.
Website: https://hebronhouse.org
Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations.
Website: https://www.ellenbecker.com
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