Shared Solutions for Vacancy Challenges: Cross-Sector Strategies for Successful Tenancies

Oregon’s housing shortage and rising tenant acuity have created new pressures for both property managers and service providers. This session brings together partners from property management, behavioral health, and nonprofit housing to discuss practical strategies for filling vacancies, supporting residents with complex needs, and preventing avoidable evictions. Panelists share real-world examples of coordinated communication, shared problem-solving, and cross-sector teamwork that lead to better outcomes for tenants and properties alike.

Working Towards The Same Goal: Multi Sector Collaboration to Address Vacancy and Property Management Challenges
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Time: 3:30 - 4:45 pm Room: E147-148
Tracks: Homelessness, Property & Asset Management
Description: Oregon has a housing shortage with over 20,000 Oregonians experiencing housing instability. Properties can do their part by filling their vacant units with those needing them most. There's an increasing number of individuals with high-acuity needs, leaving property managers in a tricky situation. Property staff want to help, and they are not case managers-- they’re less equipped to support tenants during times of duress. Unaddressed issues can escalate to massively impact the property and harm the tenant. As a result, some properties are less willing to take a chance on tenants with complicated backgrounds, and consequently, are preventing folks from gaining stability. With the right support, communication, and willingness to collaborate there's an opportunity to change the narrative. We’ll show there are ways for properties and nonprofits to come together to fill vacancies, ensure successful housing outcomes, and leverage each other's resources when challenges arise.
Moderator: June Kissel, Community Partnership Manager, Housing Connector
Presenters:
Caleb Powell, Assistant Regional Manager, Arboreal Management
Regina Amodeo, Manager of Compliance, Reach CDC
Jack Spaeth, RLRA Landlord Liaison, New Narrative
Deija Spencer, Housing Specialist/Mental Health Associate, Cascadia Health