Gloria Johnson believes that the power of community can end homelessness. As a social worker, advocate, and leader, Gloria’s dedicated her life to helping individuals experiencing homelessness find a path to safety, health, and opportunity. As part of our outreach team, and now as a community health worker for our Young Adult Supportive Services (YASS) program, Gloria’s work has impacted both individuals and communities alike.
How did you get into this work?
I began my work while in college completing my internship at the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless working with formally homeless participants on the Speaker Bureau, a group of members that share their homeless experience and how they were affected by homelessness. My task was to reach out to churches, schools, and community centers to schedule speaker’s events to create awareness in regards to homelessness throughout different communities and organizations. As I worked with formally homeless members, I was able to hear their stories and how they were impacted by mental health, substance abuse, and primary care. After, completing my internship and working with the members on the speaker bureau. I decided that I wanted to continue working in the field, and supporting our most vulnerable population. Which has landed me, where I am today working as a Community Health Worker on the Young Adults Supportive Services Team (YASS). In my current role, I support participants with housing, case management, linkage to therapy and primary care.
Why is this work important to the community and those we serve?
This work is important because, many members in the community depend on these services and benefit from them. Many communities lack proper resources, to assist the individuals that are vulnerable and need housing, mental health services, and primary care. However, Heathland Alliance has so many services to offer within the community that are available and easily assessable to participants.
Was there a moment where you knew you were in the right job?
I realized, that I was in the right job after assisting my first participant with obtaining housing, linkage to a psych provider, and case management. The thing that I will always remember, is hearing the participant say “I haven’t had my own set of keys in 35 years, and I would like to thank you for making it happen for me” Those very words, helped me to realized that I wanted to continue making a difference and helping people find the resources so that they have a better quality of life.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job, is being able to support participants with their needs, for many of our participants they don’t have an abundance of friends or family. However, just being able to support my participants with their case management needs, advocating, assisting them with maintaining their housing, primary care, and mental health is rewarding for me.
How can others get involved in your work?
I would encourage others to volunteer at shelters, community centers, and churches in their communities. I would suggest, advocating for more resources in your communities in regards to housing, mental health services, and other needed resources.
How will you practice self-care or preserve your mental health during the holidays? Any tips for our readers?
During the holidays this year, I will preserve my mental health by spending time with my family virtually via zoom and phone. I have created a list of events that will take place daily. I also plan to do my normal routine, which includes listening to holiday music and watching tons of holiday movie classics.
