4 minute read
Business & Leadership: VIA Link
THE MEN OF VIA LINK: LISTENING, UNDERSTANDING, CONNECTING
VIA LINK is a lifeline for many, providing crisis support, connecting people to vital resources and services, and offering crucial data to shape community policies and programs. At the heart of this mission are the dedicated men and women whose passion and commitment drive the organization forward. Here, we spotlight seven men of VIA LINK who make a profound difference every day.
CLIFTON HARRIS - VICE PRESIDENT OF DATA MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS
Clifton Harris, with over two decades at VIA LINK, directs such programs as the St. Tammany Uber Voucher Program, the Homeless Management Information System, and the Racial Equity Task Force for UNITY of Greater New Orleans.
“Being a crucial part of securing funding to house the homeless in our community is a privilege. Working alongside case managers, shelter staff, and outreach workers who strive to change the lives of the most vulnerable is incredibly fulfilling,” said Clifton.
ANDREW HOLBEIN - DIRECTOR OF RESOURCES & DATA
Andrew Holbein manages VIA LINK’s care navigation and data management, connecting individuals with critical resources such as housing, food assistance, and healthcare.
“Working for an organization that serves so many people and is on the cutting edge of technology is a significant source of satisfaction for me. My work drives me to make a positive impact every day,” Andrew shared.
CONNER GARRETT - DIRECTOR OF 988
Conner Garrett oversees the implementation and supervision of the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline program across two-thirds of Louisiana. As a crisis hotline specialist for over a decade, Conner’s dedication to crisis intervention and suicide prevention is deeply personal.
“Having experienced the loss of friends to suicide, my work holds deep personal meaning. I am driven to help those in crisis and those enduring similar heartache,” Conner explained.
CHRIS ROY - MANAGER OF 911 & 988 RELATIONS
Chris Roy fosters strong partnerships between VIA LINK and first responders, enhancing cooperation and ensuring a coordinated response to crises.
“Serving others is a core value for me, and VIA LINK provides a platform to pursue this goal. Each morning, I am driven by a strong sense of duty to serve others,” Chris said. His work focuses on streamlining communication, making emergency responses more effective, and improving training and resource sharing within the Northshore community.
MARC ROJO - ONLINE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT SUPERVISOR
Marc Rojo leads VIA LINK’s online emotional support services, ensuring that individuals in crisis have access to immediate help through various digital platforms.
“Everyone deserves support, and this belief fuels my dedication to my work. Ensuring people receive the help they need in their most vulnerable moments is my daily motivator,” Marc said.
CLYDE ROBINSON - HMIS DATA ADMINISTRATOR
Clyde Robinson is responsible for maintaining high data quality and accurate information entry for the North Shore Continuum of Care.
“Accurate data collection is essential for providing necessary resources to Northlake Homeless Coalition’s clients. The vision of ending homelessness drives me each day, knowing that my backend support contributes to this goal,” Clyde said. His meticulous work ensures that Northlake Homeless Coalition can effectively allocate resources and support to clients.
JACK BIGELOW - RESOURCE SPECIALIST AND DATA ANALYST
Jack Bigelow is instrumental in mining data from nonprofits for resources provided by the community. He builds dashboards on the collected data, which many agencies use for funding purposes. VIA LINK maintains a database of over 4,000 organizations in Louisiana that provide a wide range of services.
“My job is important to me because I have the opportunity to help the community in multiple ways. This position gives me a feeling of fulfillment and that I’m doing something important in the world,” Jack shared.
VIA LINK is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential services to the people of Louisiana. From crisis counseling and suicide intervention to opioid counseling and resource connection, VIA LINK’s services are available 24/7, 365 days a year. The men of VIA LINK embody the organization’s mission to listen, understand, and connect, making a significant impact on their community every day.
5001 Hwy. 190, Ste. C-1, Covington, LA 70433
(504) 895-550
