Model Citizen

Monika McCarthy is a case manager for a nonprofit organization focused on helping homeless individuals and their families. She demonstrates being a model not only on the outside, but also what it means to be a model citizen. Caring, beautiful and hardworking are a few of the things that describe Monika. Here, she’ll give her perspective on the meaningful work of her nonprofit.

Q&A

Moda Magazine: Can you tell us a little about what the organization does, offers people, and your role in it?

Monika McCarthy: “We are a nonprofit organization geared towards ending the cycle of homelessness by providing clients with shelter, case management, and linking them to various resources in the community. I work as a case manager for families who are headed by young parents (24 and younger). Case management includes help with budgeting, building credit, gaining and maintaining employment, parenting skills, and providing overall support.”

Moda: What drove you to work with this organization?

MM: “I started out at the organization as an intern for my BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) program. I enjoyed seeing all the amazing changes the organization and staff helped make in the lives of the clients they serve and watching the clients reach their goals. At the end of my internship I applied for a full time position at the agency. I always knew I wanted to.”

Moda: What’s your biggest takeaway from your experience working with the organization?

MM: “It is humbling to see how motivated and hardworking our clients are when they are faced with such difficult situations. I see how much I take for granted every day and I feel compelled to help people who have experienced trauma and homelessness.”

Moda: What’s something you wish the public understood better about the topic?

MM: “Homelessness can happen to anyone. Common causes are domestic violence, loss of job, divorce, death in the family, injury or illness.”

Moda: How can people help? What gets overlooked that organizations like this need more help with?

MM: “People can help by donating items we need, volunteering, and advocating. I think advocating for the rights of homeless families and children is extremely important because that is something that can make a lasting impact.”

Moda: What does success in this program look like?

MM: “While our main goal is for client’s is to move into permanent housing, they are able to accomplish many goals during their time with us. We help our clients with budgeting, employment, continuing education, life skills, and more.”

Moda: Do you have any favorite memories?

MM: “I always enjoy seeing the children and families I work with everyday. It is really great to see them accomplish their goals, whether it be getting a new job, getting their GED and furthering their education, or moving into permanent housing. My favorite memories all include special events that we do with the children in our program. I have always been really passionate about working with kids.”■

“It is humbling to see how motivated and hardworking our clients are when they are faced with such difficult situations. I see how much I take for granted every day and I feel compelled to help people who have experienced trauma and homelessness.”