Toolkits | 24 Jul 2009

Author: National Alliance to End Homelessness

Files: Soloist Toolkit

Join the social action campaign to challenge false serotypes about people who have a mental illness and live on the street. Participate in the August 4 DVD release of the movie the Soloist—the story of Nathaniel Ayers, a gifted Juilliard-trained string player whose mental illness led him to become homeless. His story illustrates strength in community connections and relationships. It is not acceptable, regardless of a person's mental health, for anyone to experience homelessness—with proper supports, housing stability can be achieved. We can all take action to solve homelessness and de-stigmatize mental illness.

The toolkit provides several activities that you and your organization can take part in:

• Host a viewing party at your organization, church, school, etc.
• Work with local media on a story about solutions to homelessness.
• Launch a “myth busters” campaign.
• Kick-off a local fund raiser or clothing drive.

The toolkit also lists potential discussion questions based on the movie, frequently asked questions about homelessness and mental illness, and steps that you as an individual can take.