Homelessness in Utah Lab

Caring for our homeless neighbors in Utah.

Our lab discovers, develops, and disseminates effective interventions to reduce the negative consequences of homelessness in Utah. We help governments, NGOs, and other organizations build a future where homelessness is rare, brief, and nonrecurring. We are a laboratory who tackles the ambiguity and complexity of homelessness, harnesses student leadership, and employs a unique Ballard Center approach to facilitate new innovations in solving one of the greatest challenges our society faces.

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The Problem

The first step to solving a problem is deeply understanding the problem. In June 2024, lab members Jayden and Katie shared their updates and research defining the problem and underlying root causes of homelessness in Utah.

Welcome to Our Lab 

At our lab, we are dedicated to discovering, developing, and disseminating effective interventions to mitigate the negative impacts of homelessness. We collaborate with governments and NGOs to build a future where homelessness is rare, brief, and nonrecurring. Embracing the ambiguity and complexity of homelessness, we leverage student leadership and our unique Ballard Center approach to foster innovative solutions to one of society's greatest challenges. 

Research and Design Phase 

Currently, we are deeply immersed in the research and design phase of our work. Through extensive secondary and primary research, we strive to understand the multifaceted nature of homelessness. Our strategy involves studying various populations, understanding their locations and lifestyles, identifying existing support systems, and evaluating the traditional responses they receive. This comprehensive research will guide us as we transition into the design phase, where we will create new, effective interventions tailored to the needs we have identified. 

Meet the Team 

Franz (Director): With extensive experience working with MIT and government organizations in disaster response, Franz provides strategic direction for our lab. 

Jayd (Lab Lead): Studying experience design and management, Jayd is instrumental in team management and the development of team tools. 

Katie (Lab Lead): As a philosophy student, Katie excels in managing the team and deconstructing the complexities of homelessness. 

Mary (Lab Assistant): A Public Health student, Mary is dedicated to thorough data collection and analysis. 

Sydney (Lab Assistant): Studying Spanish and Political Science, Sydney contributes to our understanding of governmental frameworks and approaches. 

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Key Events

  • Gave a presentation of deep dive analysis into the problem.

  • -Met with the Road Home Director

    -Attended Continuum of Care meeting; discussed potential partnership

    -Delved into the outcomes of low-income housing and its impact on property values.

    -Brainstormed lab projects, potential public awareness campaigns, and class content.

  • Chose Provo and SLC as primary focus areas. Investigated demographic factors that contribute to homelessness. Continued organizing research on PREZI and addressed outstanding questions.

  • Explored systems and ecosystem maps, then used PREZI to create an organized representation of our findings.

  • We shared individual research findings and discussed focus areas, potential interviewees, and project expectations.

  • We initiated research and discussed questions. Josh focused his research on BYU, while Jordan and Grady examined Utah. Grace and Robyn explored national homelessness alleviation best practices.