Dayton, Ohio – The Montgomery County Homeless Solutions Policy Board (HSPB) has proudly announced the winners of its 2025 Homeless Solutionary Awards, celebrating individuals and groups who have made a significant difference in the fight to end homelessness in the community. This year’s honorees include Kathleen Shanahan, Aryel Newman, Melodie Bennett, and the Social Work Department at the Public Defender’s Office.
A “Homeless Solutionary” is defined as someone who is driven by compassion and justice, and who applies creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking to address homelessness and its deeper, related challenges.
“Addressing homelessness requires all of us—service providers, advocates, policymakers and community leaders—working together to create real, lasting solutions,” said Montgomery County Commissioner Carolyn Rice. “These recipients’ efforts remind us that when we come together with a shared commitment to justice and dignity, we can make a profound impact.”
Honoring Individual Leadership and Collective Efforts
Kathleen Shanahan was recognized for her long-standing leadership as the county’s Housing & Homeless Solutions Program Coordinator. Her efforts helped shape the Homeless Solutions Plan and laid the groundwork for the HSPB. She has helped secure over $176 million in housing and homelessness support through 25 Continuum of Care applications to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development…