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 the whole person and accept them as they are, instead of the people we want them to be. They believe everyone has value and deserves care, no matter their situation.
2. Clients are partners in the process.
Caseworkers work with people, not for them. Clients create their own goals and determine what steps they want to take to get there. Caseworkers help guide them through these processes, offering knowledge of the various systems, available resources, and ensuring the client that they are not alone as they work to regain control of their life.
3. Progress is rarely linear.
As clients work to get shelter or housing, to find employment, or to address substance use, progress isn’t always straightforward. The current economy and systems mean that resources are often limited or nonexistent, with long waitlists for some services. A person may take a few steps forward and a few steps back as they work toward their goals. Sometimes the most important thing a social worker can do is simply be there for someone during difficult moments.
4. The work is both personal and systemic.
Caseworkers help meet people’s immediate needs, but they also advocate for changes to the broken systems that cause homelessness, hunger, and poverty in the first place. As a social work agency, advocacy is a key part of Preble Street’s mission.
“A safe place out of the cold” – Maine’s only Recuperative Care Program
“How far staff was willing to go to help me succeed.” “Having my own private room and space for healing.” “Knowing I could just relax and focus on my health.” “Having a place to be out of the cold with people who took care of me well.” These are a few responses from clients exiting
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.
A brighter Maine – 3 top legislative victories
This month, the 132nd Maine Legislative session came to an end, and we are so proud of all that was accomplished to make our state better for our most vulnerable neighbors! Preble Street’s Advocacy team and our partners spent many days in the halls of the State House to ensure that the voices, needs, and