“Being present when things fall into place, working together to accomplish goals using dignity, respect, an open heart and willingness to help is the reason I do what I do for as long as I’ve been doing it.”
~ David Gomez
What is your role at Integral Care?
I am the Program Manager for Homeless Services and oversee the PATH/ACCESS and Safe Haven programs.
What part of your work is the most rewarding?
Having an opportunity to re-build hope with the staff and the people we serve. It is rewarding and affirming to see how interacting with individuals and accepting them as they are results in happy and successful outcomes.
Being present when things fall into place, working together to accomplish goals using dignity, respect, an open heart and willingness to help is the reason I do what I do for as long as I’ve been doing it.
I am lucky to work within programs that allow me to meet people where they are and see the world from their perspective. Both Safe Haven and PATH/ACCESS provide an opportunity to see the magic that happens when people trust each other and use their combined strengths to overcome life’s barriers and challenges.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
The barriers people face in getting what they need to reach their full potential.
If there was one thing you wanted people to know about Austin’s homeless, what would it be?
That they are our brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, sons and daughters.
What is on your wish list for the next 5 years in terms of housing support for our homeless population?
That we, as a community, will focus our efforts to end homelessness and all the associated challenges it brings to our community.