Education and Advocacy
We work to achieve our mission by educating others about Over-the-Rhine, housing, and the related social implications through our volunteer programs and direct advocacy.
Through Volunteers
OTRCH has a rich history of volunteerism. Through our programs individuals, many times students, are given a direct service experience in Over-the-Rhine, a community dealing with issues of social inequality, poverty, and neglect. However, by working directly in the community and with OTRCH staff, volunteers are able to see the positive side of Over-the-Rhine that is often neglected in the media and minds of those who do not live in the community.
We have 1,600 volunteers per year who work in our buildings (painting, cleaning, demolition and construction). Our volunteers are from colleges, high schools, church groups and residents of the Drop Inn Center. We also have a 16-year-old internship program where college-age individuals live and work with Over-the-Rhine Community Housing. For many years we have hosted 'Urban Plunges' - an overnight, educational program for college age students where issues of homelessness, housing, class, race and many other social issues are discussed.
Over-the-Rhine Community Housing is also a site for national volunteer programs including AmeriCorps National Service, AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps and American Association of Retired Persons.
For more information about our Volunteer Programs, go to the Volunteer section.
Through Direct Advocacy
OTRCH works to be a voice for affordable housing by:
1) Working cooperatively with and encouraging residents to be a part of Over-the-Rhine Community Organizations like the OTR Community Council.
2) Providing staff support for individuals who may need extra assistance in finding permanent housing.
3) Being active members in city and state organizations that advocate for affordable housing in the political arena.
4) Speaking with local high school and college groups to inform them about the work we do and why we do it.