Preble Street staff are #CompassionInAction, and we want you to get to know them! This month we’re introducing you to Rich Tucker, Housing Support Worker, Teen Services
How long have you worked at Preble Street? And in your current program? I’ve been at Preble Street since November 2005, and with Teen Services for almost 4 years.
What do you like best about your role? A lot! I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. And being surprised by clients’ hidden talents like great artists, musicians, walking encyclopedias of great knowledge, movie buffs. I love working with my team and meeting new staff and being able to share my stories and experience from being here at Preble Street for over 20 years.
What are the biggest challenges you face in that role? Hearing the stories of the journeys some people have had. Them believing that all hope, good, and goals have disappeared in their eyes. Seeing they are hardwired to be in survival mode 24/7 with no feelings of being safe.
What aspect of Preble Street makes you proud to work here? Watching clients move forward, trusting again, finding their voice and feeling empowered. Working with absolutely amazing people who believe in the mission, who want to help people get back on their feet again and believe in a better life and that they are worthy and valuable to the community.
Describe your ideal weekend. Not setting the alarm clock. Eating comfy food. Spending time with my sons and friends if I can.
What is your favorite hobby or activity? My favorite thing is always hanging out with my kiddos. They are super goofy and make me laugh. I like yard saling and thrift shopping. Spending time with my best friends and laughing. I also love camping.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve heard? Let it go. (Not the movie song from Frozen). Teach a good moral compass. Always put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Remember people won’t remember everything you teach them, but they will always remember how you treated them.
Join our team!
Preble Street is committed to hiring individuals who want to make an impact in Maine through their diverse lived experience, education, and other learnings, are committed to providing low-barrier services directly to Mainers, and have a positive regard for individuals accessing services for homelessness and poverty.
From human resources to finance to casework to food programs, find the role that’s right for you!
Meet more Preble Street staff:
Staff highlight: Ella Dempsey-Blair “My clients give me hope”
Preble Street staff are #CompassionInAction, and we want you to get to know them! This month, we’re introducing you to Ella Dempsey-Blair, Case Manager at Health Services Name, title, and program: Ella Dempsey-Blair, Case Manager for Preble Street Health Services at the MaineHealth-Preble Street Learning Collaborative. I’ve worked here for over a year and a half.
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.