Recently, I had the opportunity to tour a rescue mission in Casper, Wyoming, to learn from their experience and understand how they define success in addressing homelessness. This visit highlighted the multifaceted nature of success and raised important questions about what truly signifies progress in this context.
When discussing success among those experiencing homelessness, many might point to the number of individuals housed as the primary measure. However, this metric, while important, only captures a part of the picture. Is this the success of the agency or the person experiencing homelessness? Success can be defined in various ways, and ultimately, it boils down to the individual.
At organizations like St. Benedict’s Shelter and Daniel Pitino Shelter, success could be quantified by the number of lives transformed, the annual service reach, or the number of individuals entering recovery programs. These metrics provide valuable insights into the agency’s impact, but they don’t entirely encompass the personal journeys of those they serve.
Shelter success
From an agency’s perspective, success can manifest in several forms:
- Number of lives changed: How many individuals have experienced significant positive change through the shelter’s support? This could include securing stable housing, gaining employment, or completing educational programs.
- Service reach: The number of individuals served annually reflects the shelter’s capacity and outreach efforts. It showcases the organization’s ability to address the needs of the community.
- Recovery programs: Participation in recovery programs is a critical measure, indicating progress in overcoming challenges such as substance abuse and mental health issues.
Personal success
For individuals experiencing homelessness, success is deeply personal and varied. It might involve:
- Achieving stability: Finding stable housing, maintaining employment, and achieving financial independence are significant milestones.
- Personal growth: Overcoming personal challenges, such as addiction or mental health struggles, marks profound personal success.
- Building relationships: Reestablishing connections with family and friends or forming new supportive relationships contributes to a sense of belonging and community.
Community success
When discussing community success in addressing homelessness, it’s essential to consider the collective effort and its broader impact:
- Collaborative efforts: Success is often a result of collaboration between shelters, local governments, nonprofits, and community members. Working together ensures comprehensive support for individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Policy and advocacy: Effective policies and advocacy efforts can drive systemic changes that address the root causes of homelessness, creating a more supportive environment for those in need.
- Community engagement: A community’s willingness to engage with and support homelessness initiatives reflects its commitment to creating a better future for all its members.
Ways Community Members Can See and Support Success
Community members play a crucial role in the success of agencies working towards ending homelessness. Here are some ways they can observe and contribute to this success:
- Volunteering: By volunteering at shelters or participating in outreach programs, community members can witness firsthand the positive impact of these agencies and contribute their time and skills.
- Donations: Financial contributions, as well as donations of goods such as clothing, food, and hygiene products, directly support the efforts of shelters and help meet the immediate needs of those experiencing homelessness.
- Advocacy and awareness: Raising awareness about homelessness and advocating for supportive policies can drive systemic change. Community members can engage in campaigns, attend public meetings, and use their voices to advocate for those in need.
- Participating in fundraising events: Many shelters and organizations host fundraising events to support their programs. Attending and participating in these events not only provides financial support but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.
- Education and outreach: Educating oneself and others about the complexities of homelessness and the work being done to address it can lead to greater empathy and support. Community members can participate in workshops, seminars, and other educational initiatives.
In closing, defining success in the context of homelessness requires a holistic approach that considers the perspectives of shelters, individuals, and the community. While numbers and metrics are valuable, true success starts and ends with the person. By focusing on personal stories and individual journeys, we can better appreciate the complexities of homelessness and work together to foster meaningful change. Community involvement is key to this success, and there are many ways for individuals to make a positive impact.
Written by
Harry E. Pedigo, MSSW, MHFAI, CENM
Executive Director, St. Benedict and Daniel Pitino Shelters
