Newsbriefs Rethinking Homelessness since 1977
New Hope Housing, Administration Office 8407-E Richmond Highway, Alexandria, VA 22309 703-799-2293
Volume 23 Issue 6
November 21, 2017
CHANGE Is All Around UsThe Miriam Webster online dictionary defines transition as the "Passage from one state, stage, subject, or place to another.” Nothing embodies change like the coming of the fall season. If you look out of your window, you will notice a colorful array of leaves on trees being swayed by the wind. You will also observe the fallen ones scattered across the ground. Don’t you wish you can collect a heap of leaves and then dive head first into them? I know I do! Fall is fun and full of comfort. Even the foods we eat change to soothe our mind, bodies, and spirits. From hot chocolate to pumpkin pie, this season prepares us to store up our energy for the winter. Can you feel it? The temperature has now dropped a few degrees. The breeze is now accompanied by a strong chill that reminds us of how cold the weather will be for the next couple of months. Necks are wrapped with scarfs and hands are covered by gloves. Not only are we getting accustomed to the physical changes around us, but our organization is also in transition. There are new programs, employees, goals, and opportunities to continue our fight to provide a “home and bright future for every man, woman and child in our community.” There will even be a new round of holiday celebrations coming soon! As you can see, change is inevitable! As this season brings us into our last leg of the calendar year, take time to reflect on the changes you have experienced this week, month, year or season! HAPPY FALL!
-LaKesha McGuire (NHH Office Manager)
Interesting facts about me • I enjoy watching westerns. • I Love to cook and travel. • I enjoy being a “papa” grandfather to my six grandkids!
Bio I grew up in Alexandria, VA. I also went to TC Williams High School. After high school I attended Norfolk State University, but only had the chance to complete one year. I discovered that life is full of twists and turns, but the unexpected has helped me to move on with life.
Interesting facts about me • I make homemade all natural soap. • I am newly married. • I am a minister. My favorite motto is
“Team work makes the Dream work”
Bio I am a 29 year old who is full of life! I’m driven to improve my life and the lives of others. I strive to achieve this through hard work and taking pride in what I do. I always try to put the interest of others before my own. If I can touch and change one life on a daily basis, then my mission is complete.
Interesting facts about me I love people and how they think. I am an expert in the Art of Massage I like animals. • • •
Bio I am an Army veteran, I have three beautiful kids, and I have been a massage therapist for 8 years.
Interesting facts about me • I like listening to music. • I enjoy swimming. • I love to travel. Bio I enjoy meeting new people and finding ways to help them and I am a great listener. My last employer was FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). I worked in disaster recovery and I loved that job. I have two children and a 15 year old dog that is part of our family. I am happy to be working for New Hope Housing!
Interesting facts about me • I have a passion for helping others. • I have graphic design skills. • I used to own and manage a clothing store. Bio I was born and raised in the Washington, DC area. I have an Associates degree in Applied Science and I am completing my Bachelors degree in Web Technology and Multi Media Design.
Interesting facts about me • I enjoy watching science fiction movies. •
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I like reading books about investments and ancient history. I enjoy all types of music, but rap is my first choice. I hope to start my own Digital Marketing Agency business some day. I enjoy making people laugh and feel god about themselves.
I believe in spreading love and good energy.
Sherry is pictured receiving her Lawrence Daniels Award check with her supervisor Steven Lonon
New Hope Housing’s queen of hypothermia season, Sherry Edelkamp celebrated her 10 year anniversary on November 5th. Sherry was a volunteer with Aldersgate Church at VIC-HOP for 2 years before she crossed over to NHH as a staff member back in 2007. We appreciate her hard work and dedication to New Hope Housing throughout the years. Congratulations!
Martha Faconer Sends Kudos to:
Chavon Bell Sends Kudos to:
Thanks Tonya Henderson for all that you have been doing at the front desk. You are doing a great job at Bailey’s as Shelter Services Specialist.
Dana for always helping out and knowing what to do.
Christian Boamah at Kennedy for keeping me updated on maintenance issues. You are a great help to the Operations Team. Warren and Eddie for all your hard work that you did at Bailey’s thank you! Darcel for all your help with deliveries and for completing them in a timely manner. Donna for all your extra work you have been doing at Bailey’s Kudos and a thank you to Ray for going to the RISE Units to do maintenance. Roxanne for ensuring things were in place and staying on all top of all the units Anthony D. for all your extra help at Kennedy, which made it possible for Donna to assist at Bailey’s. Lavora for all of your support to help cover at Kennedy. Tony thank you for cleaning the trailer shower stall I appreciate all the hard work that the Operations Team has done and continues to do during the organization's Bailey's Shelter transition. I am thankful for my New Hope Housing Inc. extended family. Happy Thanksgiving and have a bless holiday.— Martha
Blanca Palma Sends Kudos to: Jermiah Williams for his awesome work and wiliness to go beyond his call of duty. Also Sheila T., Deidre, and Abass.
I’d like to give Kudos to the Two Men and a Truck aka Darcel and Eddie! They have been doing an amazing job with “getting it done”. I can’t thank them enough for always responding in a timely manner with all that they have on their plate. Thank you for being awesome! Anthony D. and Donna thank you for always making a way in the kitchen for me and my clients. Latasha thank you for always helping out and keeping our team going. Sharina thanks for always having our backs and helping with the clients.
Eugenia Young Sends Kudos to: Artisha for all her training and help making my transition very smooth thanks! Dana for all that she does to make sure our leases are done in timely manner and being bubbly about it. Chandra for being an awesome manager. Elhamy for always taking time to help me. Shaun Valentine for all of his help when I need it.
LaKesha McGuire Sends Kudos to: Sami and Nicole for their hard work coordinating another successful Thanksgiving basket season. Accounting Team (Shawn, Shaun, Tek, and El) for holding down the dept. during a very busy season. There were a lot of changes on the admin side and with the addition of Bailey’s. I appreciate the vital roles that each of you play.
Title: Reports to: Supervises: FLSA Status:
Senior Program Director II, Bailey’s Shelter Executive Director Assistant Director and Coordinator of Residential Services Exempt
Summary of Position The Senior Director I provides direct management, leadership, program and facilities oversight for all residential components of the Bailey’s Crossroads Shelter including the residential services and shift coverage, the case management team (CMT) , the Coordinated Entry Intake Process, Rapid Re-housing Services, Homeless Healthcare Program (HHP), and Emergency Shelter services. S/he is responsible for the oversight of the organization’s ongoing operations and procedures for these programs in areas of service delivery, program development, quality assurance, tracking and assessing statistics, Working as part of the Executive Team, the senior director will set direction and develop strategies for accomplishment of organizational goals and priorities in accordance with agency philosophy and values. The Senior Director will serve as an advocate for New Hope Housing, homeless services, and the residents served. Duties and Responsibilities: • Provides leadership, development, and oversight for all programs listed above. • Sets comprehensive goals and strategies for program performance and growth that are in alignment with the agency’s mission and vision. • Establishes policies that promote company culture and vision; ensure clear and timely communication of agency expectations and policies to program staff. • Provides coaching and development support to direct reports through regularly scheduled one on one meetings and evaluations. • Participates in expansion and collaborative activities. • Collaborate with and supports the business functions of the organization, including Human Resources, Finance and Development. • Ensures implementation of best practices (such as rapid re-housing, permanent supportive housing, trauma informed care, etc.). • Maintains current knowledge of issues impacting homelessness and domestic violence. • Ensures services are implemented in accordance with agency philosophy, grant and contract requirements, and all applicable federal, state and local regulations. • Supports program staff in addressing high risk cases that have escalated past the program level; attends staffings at each of the programs. • Evaluates program and agency performance by analyzing and interpreting data, metrics, and other statistical information to ensure that desired outcomes are being achieved. • Develops new program initiatives, as assigned, based on program outcomes and needs. • Acts as the New Hope Housing representative with partner organizations in Fairfax County Continuum of Care to ensure quality program development, implementation, collaboration, and maintenance. • Ensures compliance with the policies and procedures of New Hope Housing including the utilization of Mandt principles and Out of Poverty curriculum • Adheres to the required ethical standards to include confidentiality, boundaries, resident rights; Approves use of PTO and Sick hours and timesheets for direct reports. Monitors work hours of all program in the ADP electronic timesheet system; • Performs other duties as assigned. Qualifications: • Required: A bachelor's degree in human services/ related field • Proven experience in managing homeless programs and developing and implementing policies and procedures and knowledge of housing first, rapid re-housing, and other nation-wide initiatives to prevent and end homelessness • 5+ years of management/ leadership experience within a social services agency • Understanding of business functions such as HR, Finance, Program Management, etc. • Demonstrable competency in strategic planning and business development • Working knowledge of data analysis and performance/operation metrics • Outstanding organizational and leadership abilities and ability to work creatively and independently • Excellent interpersonal skills working with a diverse staff and clientele. Aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving • Proficient use of computers to include Microsoft Office, Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and other database software(s) used to track service delivery; • The ability to successfully pass a background check and possess a valid driver’s license with a good driving record to be approved by our insurance carrier; • Strong oral and written communication skills, including public speaking skills • Willingness to work evenings and weekends when needed • Preferred: A master's degree in human services/ related field • Experience leading/ supporting programs serving homeless persons, persons with mental illness or substance abuse addiction Salary: negotiable Send resume and cover letter to hr@newhopehousing.org and please put position title in the subject line. New Hope Housing is proud to be an EOE Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity.
Position: Reports to: Supervises:
On Call Residential Services Specialists, Bailey’s Shelter: Coordinator of Residential Services N/A
Summary of Position: The Resident Services Specialist is responsible for monitoring the activities of the shelter on his/her shift to ensure a safe, manageable, positive energy, living environment. Focus is on the residents and how best to assist them during their stay. He/She is a member of the site team. Essential Responsibilities: Some of the essential responsibilities of the Residential Services Specialist include, but are not limited to:
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Ensures a safe and manageable living environment for the shelter residents. Monitors residential areas, is visible and interacts regularly and informally with shelter residents. Reads log book from previous shift to note any items that need attention. Completes essential forms for intake and checkout procedures for residents. Consults with Coordinator of Residential Services and case managers regarding residents' personal needs, behavior and service planning. Within limits assists residents in processing issues, problem solving, parenting, etc. Provides a positive role model for residents. Maintains all required documentation of residents’ activities on a current basis. Assists in dispensing medication to residents. On a daily basis counts all medications and updates medication log. Conducts breathalyzer and drug urine screens as needed. Distributes medication, medication vouchers, taxi vouchers, bus tokens, linens, and toiletries to residents in accordance with established procedures. Answers telephone and routes calls and messages to appropriate staff in a professional manner. Responds to in-person and telephone inquiries from the public about New Hope Housing, Inc. with a courteous and professional demeanor. Supervises resident chores and resident upkeep of their personal areas. Informs case manager when there are problems. Assists with resident activities and programs, as assigned. Accounts for all donations received during the shift. Controls access to donations by residents and secures donations as appropriate. Issue receipts to donors. Replenishes supply closet when needed. Assists in serving meals when needed. Monitors meal times at the Alexandria Community Shelter. Works flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and over nights as assigned. Models a caring, concerned, and respectful attitude toward residents. Maintains adherence to resident guidelines and upholds shelter procedures. Is familiar with and complies with policies and procedures of New Hope Housing. May orient, and/or supervise court-referred volunteers. Communicates regularly with referring agencies and maintains all required documentation, as assigned. Participates in all staff meetings and required trainings. Transports residents in agency vehicles, including agency's 15-passenger van on an as needed basis and only when requested by supervisor. Performs other duties as assigned.
Preferred Qualifications: This position requires the following:
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High School Diploma or the equivalent, and the required knowledge, skills, and abilities and have an interest in working with those who are homeless and the capability to be aware of their needs. Experience with homeless adults, mentally ill or substance abusers. Counseling and crisis intervention skills. Clinical experience preferred. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Computer literate. The ability to successfully pass a background check and possess a valid driver’s license with a good driving record to be approved by our insurance carrier. Salary: $14.13/hour
Send resume and cover letter to hr@newhopehousing.org. Please put job title in the subject line. New Hope Housing is proud to be an EOE/ADA employer that values diversity
Position: Reports to: Supervises:
Full Time Cook Operations Coordinator N/A
Summary of Position: The cook is responsible for preparing healthy, nutritious meals for shelter residents. He/She is a member of the Operations team.
Essential Responsibilities: Some of the essential responsibilities of the Residential Services Specialist include, but are not limited to: • Prepares and serves a nutritional and well-balanced meal for each mealtime occurring during their shifts. Prepares and distributes bag lunches and/or late dinners for working residents. • Assists with adequate stocking of resident refrigerator and self-service areas and cleaning of kitchen and equipment regularly to ensure sanitary food preparation conditions. Adheres to health department regulations. • Picks up, accepts and properly stores food and other donations from the community. Accounts for all donations received during the shift. Controls access to donations by residents and secures donations as appropriate. Issue receipts to donors. • Prepares food baskets for off-site residents, as requested. • Responds to in-person and telephone inquiries from the public about New Hope Housing, Inc. with a courteous and professional demeanor. • Works with volunteers and residents who are assigned to help in the kitchen, giving them direction and answering questions. • Participates in staff meetings. • Provides a positive role model for residents. • Works flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and over nights as assigned. • Models a caring, concerned, and respectful attitude toward residents. • Maintains adherence to resident guidelines and upholds shelter procedures. • Is familiar with and complies with policies and procedures of New Hope Housing. • Transports residents in agency vehicles, including agency's 15-passenger van on an as needed basis and only when requested by supervisor. • Performs other duties as assigned.
Preferred Qualifications: This position requires the following: • Previous cooking experience. Certified Food Handler. • Ability and interest in working with those who are homeless and to be aware of their needs. • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. • The ability to successfully pass a background check and possess a valid driver’s license with a good driving record to be approved by our insurance carrier. • Ability to lift 50 lbs. Salary: $14.13/hour
Send resume and cover letter to hr@newhopehousing.org. Please put job title in the subject line. New Hope Housing is proud to be an EOE/ADA employer that values diversity
Christmas is just around the corner, and there is a booklist that will bring the Christmas spirit into your home. Set a time in the evening with your loved ones, gather around the fireplace, and start conquering this legendary list of Christmas classics: • • • • • • • •
A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Dr. Seuss The Polar Express, Chris Van Allsburg The Gift of the Magi, O. Henry Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Robert L. May The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Barbara Robinson The Night Before Christmas, Clement Clarke Moore Feeling Christmas, Mandy Bare Stacey Osborne, RSS Mondloch House
New Hope Housing - Newsbriefs
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Team Meetings
Name
Location EUKS
EUKS Team
24
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Dates
Times 2pm - 4pm
Every Mon
PSH Team– Singles (Fairfax)
Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday Rotating Locations of each month
10:00am
PSH Team– Families & Singles (Arlington and Alexandria)
Every 2nd and 4th Monday Rotating Locations of each month
10:00am
SUSTAIN/Diversion
Admin Conf. Room Every 2nd Wed of month
10:30am
Name Martha Faconer Dana Murray Chandra Beander Paul Kola Anthony Defrietas Louis Cook Tashara Thurston
Month November November November November November November November
Day 2 6 8 11 22 30 30
Name Pamela Michell Roxanne Watkins Sherry Edelkamp Tonya Golden Tonique Melton Lance Flowers Shawn Valentine Candice Udodi Kenneth Smith Christian Boamah Praveen Kola Donna Watson AnthonyJohnson
Month November November November November November November November November November November November November November
Day 5 16 5 10 21 13 16 6 13 12 9 17 5
Years 27 18 10 9 5 3 2 2 2 2 2 1 1