Nineteen nonprofits applied for the project, including organizations as varied as the SPCA, Best Buddies and local schools. But Homeward, an umbrella organization that helps coordinate food and shelter organizations across Richmond, seemed the best fit, says Teresa Williams, associate dean at Jepson.

“They are at a point where they need critical assessment, and our students are looking for real-life leadership practice,” Williams says. “It was a perfect match.”

Aside from their work throughout the year, students will work directly with the homeless during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week in November, and they will hear lectures from community leaders, Williams says.

“The overriding question about homelessness is: Whose problem is it? Is it something we all need to get involved with?” Williams says. “That is what some of these leaders will try to answer.” — Rebecca Richardson