Touchstone of Change: Local Non-profit Tackles Homelessness Head-On

4PA’s innovative, community-driven solution brings shelter, skills, and revitalization to Port Angeles

Clallam County is home to breathtaking natural beauty, resilient people, and a community spirit that binds us together. Yet, like many communities, Port Angeles faces the challenging reality of homelessness and its impact on public spaces and quality of life. These challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading to frustration or hopelessness. But amidst the struggle, inspiring solutions are emerging—solutions like those driven by 4PA, an innovative local organization committed to transforming Port Angeles through tangible, community-driven actions.

The Challenge: Balancing Compassion and Community Needs

Port Angeles has seen a noticeable increase in homelessness over recent years. With this has come encampments, litter, and safety concerns—factors that deeply impact community pride and the quality of public spaces residents hold dear. Joe DeScala, founder of 4PA, first recognized this shift in 2017 while jogging local trails and parks. Troubled by what he saw and committed to community well-being, Joe knew that something needed to change.

The challenge wasn't just the visible effects of homelessness—it was also about the human element. People experiencing homelessness often grapple with complex issues such as mental health, addiction, and isolation. Recognizing this, Joe sought a balanced solution, combining compassion with accountability, aimed at benefiting both the unhoused and the broader community.

The Beginning: An Idea Born from Local Observations

In 2019, after extensive conversations with city officials, law enforcement, social services, and volunteers, it became clear to DeScala that resources were stretched thin and vital pieces of the puzzle were being overlooked. Port Angeles needed a strategic approach with fresh solutions rather than reactive measures.

Thus, 4PA was born in 2021. Its mission was clear from the outset: a clean and safe community for all. Their small grassroots group laid out a plan to accomplish this by cleaning and maintaining public spaces, providing structured temporary housing, and equipping individuals with skills necessary for long-term self-sufficiency. The heart of this organization rests in its belief that the community and those experiencing homelessness must grow together toward a healthier future.

Turning Vision into Action: The Touchstone Campus

At the center of 4PA’s efforts is the ambitious Touchstone Campus, envisioned as a bridge between homelessness and permanent independence. 4PA purchased the property located at 230 E First Street less than two years after their start due to a groundswell of community support. The Touchstone Campus repurposes a historic building, originally Lannoye Motors built in 1945, and will serve as 4PA’s “all-in-one” operations center with the aim to meet several community needs.

The development of the Touchstone Campus is structured in deliberate phases:

• Phase One: Establishing Cleanup Operations
  Initially focused on forming a cleanup crew and acquiring essential equipment, this phase continues to restore public spaces and built community trust. To date over 300,000 pounds of waste have been removed, creating immediate positive impacts. All cleanups use humane practices, never removing personal belongings from people living outside and connecting individuals with existing social services.

• Phase Two: Building the Temporary Shelters
  This phase, currently underway, includes constructing of eleven temporary shelters equipped with heat, electricity, and security, providing stability and dignity for residents. Each tiny home costs approximately $30,000, funded entirely through community donations, business partnerships, and grants like the $25,000 contribution from the First Fed Foundation.

• Phase Three: Common Facilities and Job Training
  The campus will feature shared community spaces with showers, laundry, a kitchen, and retail or manufacturing businesses to provide residents with vital job skills. Partnerships with local businesses like Angeles Millwork and Hartnagel Building Supply have already significantly reduced construction costs through donated or discounted materials.

• Future Phases: Expanding Services and Long-Term Housing
  Future expansions will include renovating additional retail spaces for on-site job opportunities for residents, plus additional spaces for community use. In addition, discussions have already started about developing off-site housing to transition residents to permanent independence.

  

Community and Business Perspectives

The Touchstone Campus has garnered wide-ranging support across the community. Local businesses recognize its potential to revitalize the area and address homelessness comprehensively. 4PA has received support from many local groups, including Swains, Naval Elks Lodge, and several others who support their vision.

While city officials have yet to publicly comment extensively, the project's alignment with community safety and revitalization goals strongly suggests future collaboration. On social media, residents regularly express enthusiasm and appreciation, reflecting strong local support.

Stories of Hope: Meet Dan

Dan's story epitomizes the transformative impact of 4PA's initiatives. Initially experiencing homelessness, Dan found purpose and pride as a crew lead overseeing cleanups around Port Angeles. His dedication and leadership have been integral to 4PA's operations. Soon, Dan will become the first resident—and on-site manager—of the Touchstone Campus, symbolizing the organization's commitment to empowering individuals toward self-sufficiency.

Anticipated Impact

The Touchstone Campus promises significant, multifaceted contributions to Port Angeles:

• Enhanced Public Spaces: The reduction of unauthorized encampments and cleaner public areas contribute to a safer and more inviting community environment.

• Empowerment Through Employment: By offering practical job training and employment opportunities, 4PA fosters individual self-sufficiency and economic participation.

• Community Revitalization: The comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness and public space maintenance is expected to boost local pride and business confidence, leading to broader economic and social revitalization.

Funding the Vision

Community donations remain central to 4PA’s funding strategy, maintaining the organization’s flexibility and responsiveness to local needs. Additional grant funding and revenue from on-site businesses are planned to sustain long-term operations.

Founder Joe DeScala summarizes it best: “I’m doing this for our entire community. It’s about restoring pride, treating people like I’d like to be treated, and creating a safe, thriving environment for everyone.”

Conclusion: Solutions in Action, Inspiring Hope

From identifying urgent community needs to mobilizing resources and developing strategic solutions, 4PA exemplifies effective, local problem-solving. Despite inevitable challenges, such as securing sufficient funding and navigating the complexities of homelessness, 4PA has maintained resilience through unwavering community support. By bringing together residents, businesses, and civic organizations, they've fostered a sense of collective responsibility and optimism.

The story of 4PA and the Touchstone Campus is a testament to what a committed community can accomplish when it unites around shared goals. Port Angeles is not merely witnessing a solution in progress—it is participating actively in its creation. The ongoing efforts of 4PA highlight the profound potential within every community to create meaningful change.

Get Involved: How You Can Make a Real Difference with 4PA

Every community thrives when its members step forward with generosity and compassion. Port Angeles has a powerful opportunity to support the transformative work of 4PA. Here are some practical, meaningful ways you can help:

1. Financial Contributions and Monthly Giving

One of the most impactful ways to support 4PA's mission is through financial donations. Whether it's a one-time gift or a recurring monthly pledge, your contributions go directly toward building temporary shelters, maintaining clean public spaces, and developing critical community facilities.

https://donorbox.org/4pa-city-cleanup-homeless-support

• Donate Now: Make a one-time or recurring donation.

• Monthly Giving: Regular contributions provide stability for long-term projects. Consider becoming a monthly donor to support sustained progress.

• Checks: “4PA” PO Box 25, Port Angeles, WA 98362

Remember, all donations to 4PA are tax-deductible (EIN# 87-2448613).

2. Volunteering Your Time

Volunteers are the backbone of community-driven change. 4PA warmly welcomes volunteers for cleanup crews, helping to maintain parks, trails, and public spaces around Port Angeles. Volunteering with 4PA is not just about making spaces cleaner—it's about building community pride and connection.

• Volunteer Opportunities: 4PA offers flexible volunteer opportunities suitable for different schedules and physical abilities. You can join existing cleanup routes or even create your own tailored route!

• Getting Started:

  1. Review What to Expect When Volunteering.

  2. Sign the Volunteer Waiver.

  3. Choose your volunteer date and location: Volunteer Sign-Up Page.

Volunteers are provided with essential equipment, such as garbage grabbers, buckets, and safety vests.

3. In-Kind Donations and Business Partnerships

Local businesses play an invaluable role in 4PA’s success through financial sponsorships or donating materials and services. Whether it’s donating construction materials, offering professional services, or supporting fundraising events, your business can make a significant community impact.

• Become a Business Partner: Email info@4pa.org to explore partnership opportunities.

4. Spread the Word

Awareness is crucial. Share 4PA’s stories and achievements within your networks and on social media. By amplifying their message, you help attract volunteers, donors, and wider community support.

• Follow and Share: Stay updated and spread positivity by following 4PA on Facebook.

Together, these actions ensure a stronger, safer, and more hopeful future for Port Angeles. Join 4PA today, and help build a community where everyone has a chance to thrive.

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