The RobCast The Mesa State of Things
Nov 18, 2025
Explore the inspiring mission of Mesa, where youth aging out of foster care find homes and support. Discover the community's creative involvement, including a film made by participants that premiered at a festival. Dive into the emotional impact of having a stable home, as shared by a resident's testimony. Rob discusses the replicability of this model for broader societal change, while also addressing the need for new communal spaces. The vibrant atmosphere of a garden party fundraiser emphasizes the community spirit driving this innovative initiative.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
How Mesa Began In Ojai
- Rob Bell recounts meeting Dan Parziel and learning how Mesa built tiny homes and a support program for teens aging out of foster care.
- He describes Mesa as a model that brings housing, coaching, and community involvement to prevent homelessness upstream.
Upstream Intervention Prevents Homelessness
- Rob Bell explains that housing instability in the late teens predicts later homelessness, making the post-foster-care transition pivotal.
- He emphasizes addressing that upstream moment can prevent long-term housing instability.
Ten Tiny Homes And A Two-Year Program
- Rob Bell describes Mesa building 10 tiny homes, staffing a program, and partnering with the county to host residents for two years.
- He shares that participants receive life-skills teaching, psychological support, and community mentorship.