I interviewed Tia Kennebrew, who is the manager of Mary’s Place. Mary’s Place is a nonprofit organization in Seattle & King County helping families who are experiencing homelessness to get the help that they need, such as housing and resources. I chose to interview her because her career is a job that you don’t see very often. She has worked in this field for about 2 – 4 years now. For students who have an interest in this field of work, I hope that you find this information helpful.
What’s your job all about?
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Manage a homeless shelter for people who suffer from mental illnesses and mostly substance abuse without permanent residency.
What do you like most about your job?
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The ability to help others obtain permanent residency.
What challenges do you face at work?
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Not enough resources.
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People not abiding to policies and procedures.
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Witnessing overdoses.
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Seeing people with a lack of care for themselves and the space they live in.
What are some tips / advice you would give a student interested in this career path?
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They have to like working with people of all backgrounds.
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They need to have a strong work ethic.
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They need to have a desire to help others.
What should you go to school for in order to get into his career path?
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A Case Management Certificate.
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Masters Degree in social work or an AA.
What motivated you to pursue this career?
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Enjoy helping people.
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Have levied experience.
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Filling a shortage of people who have a passion to work in this field.
What is the most difficult part about your job?
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Telling people no or having to kick people out.
Is there anything else you would like to add or information you would like to share?
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If you're going to work in this field, you have to have the passion and desire to help people.
