Preble Street staff are #CompassionInAction, and we want you to get to know them! This month, we’re introducing you to Sarah Geores, Caseworker at Elena’s Way Wellness Shelter
Name, title, and program: Sarah, caseworker, Elena’s Way
How long have you worked at Preble Street? Since December 2022
What do you like best about your role? I enjoy connecting with people – clients, community members, colleagues, and community partners. I’m constantly learning, and my mind continues to be opened. When I am sure of something, sure of the outcome, sure of how a person will react, or whatever it may be, I am often proven wrong – which is a beautiful thing! I get to grow and evolve and see things from different views that I may never have otherwise.
What are the biggest challenges you face in that role? Keeping focused has been my main goal. It’s an obstacle in such a dynamic place as Elena’s Way. With so much going on and so many factors at play, it’s easy to try to multitask, but it’s important to stay laser-focused on one thing at a time.
What aspect of Preble Street makes you proud to work here? I grew up in Portland, and Preble Street was always around. It always seemed to be the one organization that was visible, vocal, and truly helping the community. If I could tell my 12-year-old self that I would be working here as an adult, I know she’d be impressed. 😊
What is the best piece of advice you’ve heard? That one of the most important questions to ask yourself is “Is it possible I could be wrong?” Of course, the answer is almost always yes, and then that answer can open your mind to other viewpoints and possibilities.
What are some of your favorite local spots to visit? Honestly, my house and my yard. Ha! I’m a total homebody, and I’ve poured myself into my home and gardens. Any chance I get to sit outside, walk around in my yard, or lounge around the house reading or hanging out with my kids and husband – I take it!
Join our team! From human resources, to casework, to finance, to food programs, find the role that’s right for you! View current job openings here.
Meet more Preble Street staff:
4 things to know about social work at Preble Street
1. It’s about relationships, not just services. Caseworkers don’t just help connect people to food and housing. They focus on building true human connections with the individuals they work with. Listening, treating each individual with dignity and respect, and getting to know someone’s story are all important parts of the work. At Preble Street, social workers see
Staff highlight: Tim Stokes – Housing problem-solving
Preble Street staff are #CompassionInAction, and we want you to get to know them! This month we’re introducing you to Tim Stokes, Case Worker, Rapid Re-Housing Program! How long have you worked at Preble Street? Since January 2025. What do you like best about your role? Everyone’s situation is different – but a stable housing arrangement often depends on many things coming together. I enjoy tracking down these things and connecting resources to help others regain a sense of autonomy.
Meet the Chefs
On a blustery Tuesday in March, Chefs Brian and Colin roll out fresh dough for 500 dinner rolls as Chef Romann chops vegetables for the stock he’s brewing in the 80-gallon steam kettle. These three are the head chefs at the Preble Street Food Security Hub, where they lead a team of staff and volunteers in creating, preparing, and packaging thousands of meals every day for people experiencing hunger and homelessness in Maine.