General Membership
What is General Membership?
The General Membership is the larger community of individuals and organizations who are committed to preventing and ending homelessness in the Maricopa region. It is also the primary entry point for individuals interested in serving on a committee or workgroup, or for organizations interested in partnering with, the Continuum of Care (CoC). Membership is open year-round to anyone who is committed to this work, whether you are new to the CoC or already engaged in the community.
By joining the General Membership, you become part of a broad network that helps guide the CoC’s efforts and priorities. Members have opportunities to participate in committees, workgroups, and leadership roles and contribute to shaping the region’s homeless response system.
Joining is as simple as completing the membership form. You will receive notification within 30 days regarding your membership status and next steps for getting involved.
As outlined in 24 CFR § 578.5, the CoC’s General Membership includes a wide range of partners dedicated to preventing and ending homelessness. This includes (but is not limited to) nonprofit homeless assistance providers, victim service providers, faith-based organizations, government agencies, businesses, advocates, public housing agencies, mental health providers, healthcare organizations, universities, affordable housing developers, justice system partners, veteran service organizations, and individuals with lived experience of homelessness.
Membership Roles and Responsibilities
General Members play a vital role in shaping the direction and success of the CoC. Members are asked to:
- Review and ratify updates to the CoC’s Governance Charter, including Board selection policies, as initiated by the CoC Board, but no less than every five years;
- Elect representatives to fill vacant at-large seats on the CoC Board;
- Stay informed on the work of the CoC and provide input to the Board via participation in biannual membership meetings and any other forums planned by the Board;
- Review and comment on documents of major significance to the CoC (Governance Charter, Strategic Plan, Written Standards, etc.) when the Board updates and circulates items for public comment;
- Serve on CoC Committees and ad hoc workgroups, as interested and able;
- Follow Conflict of Interest protocols, as referenced in Article 7 of this charter; and
Serve as a champion for the work of the CoC within the community.
Membership Meetings
The CoC hosts at least two general membership meetings each year, held in-person or virtually, with notice and draft agendas provided at least 30 days in advance.
All members are encouraged to attend, stay informed, and participate in decisions that strengthen our collective response to homelessness.
How to Become a Member
Membership is open year-round and can be completed electronically using the link below.
By submitting an application, you affirm your commitment to the values and principles of the Maricopa Regional CoC.
Note:
- Individuals may join and vote as individuals, not as representatives of a particular organization or sector.
- Members are responsible for updating their contact information if it changes. If messages become undeliverable and no update is provided, the member may be removed from the distribution list in accordance with CoC protocols.