The story behind Eliza Park
We are people, showing compassion for people.
From one person's vision to a movement
This work began with the vision of one man and a simple, radical belief: that compassion belongs to everyone, especially those most often overlooked. He showed up — not with answers or conditions — but with food, presence, understanding, and love. He let people know, quietly and sincerely, that they were seen for who they truly are: human beings.
From that small act of showing up, others followed. Compassion multiplied. What began as a humble, grassroots effort slowly grew into something larger — a formal 501(c)(3) nonprofit shaped by lived experience and guided by shared humanity. An organization built by people who have walked these paths, now walking alongside others still finding their way.
So when we are asked who we are, our answer is simple and true: We are people, showing compassion for people.
Not defined by office hours or job titles
Eliza Park Homeless Initiative (EPHI), is not defined by office hours or job titles. We are a living, breathing community shaped by lived experience — people who have walked these paths and now walk beside others, helping them find their way forward, one step at a time. Compassion is not something we offer from a distance; it is the ground on which we stand.
Our Mission
We meet people where they are, connecting them to the resources they need, while advocating for dignity and respect. We help create pathways forward, restoring self worth and hope.
Our Vision
A Raleigh where every individual has access to safe shelter, meaningful work, supportive community, and the resources needed to build a stable, fulfilling life — where no one is forgotten or left behind.
Why This Model?
Over half a million Americans are homeless every day, with billions wasted or misspent trying to fight the problem. Where we step in:
- Environmental cleanup and beautification
- Peer-led governance (Roots and Outlanders)
- Workforce solutions to get lives back on track
- Weekly church attendance that builds community and belonging
The people behind the mission
Paul Geigel
Visionary Director / Founder
Christina Jones
Vice Chair
Dan Mastropolo
Director of the Board
Will Harris
Director of Lived Experience
What drives everything we do
Compassion
We lead with empathy — meeting people where they are, connecting them to what they need, and advocating for their dignity and respect.
Community
We are a living, breathing community shaped by lived experience, walking beside those who are finding their way forward.
Integrity
We are built by people who have walked these paths, now walking alongside others. Transparency and accountability guide every decision.
Growth
We foster environments that nurture healing, create pathways forward, and restore self-worth and hope.
