what we do
Meet Homeless Folks where they are/Establish advocatee relationship
Connect with case management
Work with case management to help ensure these folks are getting the support they need
what does that mean?
With the help of volunteers and in conjunction with other Seattle non-profits, we identify camps that are in need or in jeopardy of being swept. With consistent interaction and outreach, we work to build relationships with those in the camps; gathering names, needs, and interest in housing.
Through partnership with outreach service providers, we help connect folks with the people (often city resources) who can assist in securing transitional housing. **Greenlake Homeless Advocates does not have the ability to place folks in transitional housing.
Once an advocatee is in transtional housing, you - as their advocate - frequently connect with their case manager ensuring the advocatee is receiving the help they need. This can mean aiding in their ID renewal process, providing them with the resources to get a phone, helping with the permanent housing research, etc. Sometimes, it just means being a consistent face.
what’s a day in the life of an advocate?
As with everything in life, most day look different. I, Bruce, spend an hour a day at any active camp we are working with. I visit Tiny Home Villages, shelters, and any other place we have advocatees. I meet with volunteers, community members, and city employees. Some volunteers commit a similar amount of time, though 1hr/wk is what we ask; this allows you to meet with your advocatee 1:1 and/or sit in on case manager meetings.
ten commandments of advocacy
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The most important thing you can do is be there for them. Be there in body and mind.
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Mean what you say and say what you mean, always. If you have to promise something, it sounds like you don't mean what you say unless you promise it.
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Remember that your most valuable commodity and service is YOU. Don't buy your way to meaningful connection.
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See commandment below :)
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This is perhaps a good rule for everyone, all the time (I certainly learned this as a teacher of 30 years). Considering that most homeless individuals, compromised by drugs, trauma and mental illness, are fully in possession of all their faculties a small percentage of their lives, what are the chances that they meant what they did or said to you?
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Presume and assume nothing or you'll constantly be shocked and disappointed.
There are very few rules in homeless world, at least none that most of us understand, so be ready for anything and stay away from judgement.
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You'll do yourself and your Advocatees the greatest favor in the world if you stay positive.
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Don't ever expect anything will get done unless you do it or, at least, are there to assist. Every once in awhile, something gets accomplished without your own effort; savor it!
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Do it now or yesterday. If I had a nickel for every time I missed an opportunity completely, lost an Advocatee, or a chance for housing because I hesitated, I'd be able to buy a house for many homeless people.
5 c’s of advocacy
continuity
connection
consistency
calling
compassion
become an advocate!
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become an advocate! ~~~~~~~~