Dear friends.
We live in challenging times. Wars. Climate change. Political division. Housing is out of reach for far too many in the U.S. and across the globe. Despite past progress on racial justice and LGBTQ+ equality, we are now in a time of backlash. During these times it is more important than ever to continue focusing on what matters most—renewing our connections with one another and deepening our collective commitment to solving our society’s most vexing issues—homelessness, poverty, racial disparities.
My work journey over the past three decades has been eye-opening. I have had amazing opportunities to work as a street outreach worker, case manager, coalition builder, health care consultant, small business owner, CEO of a company focused on social innovation, strategic planner, leadership coach, teacher, and writer. Most recently, I had the honor of serving in the Biden-Harris administration as Executive Director of the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, where I witnessed the extraordinary work of career public servants in the federal government, the courage of local elected officials tackling homelessness with focus and creativity, and the power of people who have been homeless and who are now lifting their voices to advocate for others.
I left the administration in December after three years of federal service in order to focus on how I can be most useful in the next phase of my work life. In the past, I have found consulting work to be a good use of my skills and perspective—supporting organizations and communities as they strive to help those who have been marginalized.
In this spirit, I am pleased to announce the launch of the Jeff Olivet Consulting Group, or the Olivet Group. I will focus on a number of areas that are important to me, including the intersection of health and homelessness and upstream prevention work that keeps people from becoming homeless in the first place. All of this work will continue to be grounded in a commitment to addressing racial inequality and achieving access to housing, health, and wraparound supports for all.
I will be partnering with long-time friends and colleagues to support non-profit, for-profit, and government agencies in the U.S. and internationally. And in addition to this work, I will be joining my friends at Racial Equity Partners in its ongoing work to support organizations as they navigate challenges to advance equity work, even in the face of fierce opposition.
The work to end homelessness, ensure health care access for all, and combat the insidious forces of bigotry and racism has never been more important. I look forward to continuing on the journey with you. Please reach out anytime.
Peace,
Jeff