Meet Blanca Muniz, Front Steps’ Case Manager!
Blanca always knew she was called to help families. Since joining Front Steps, she’s been dedicated to chasing that feeling of satisfaction by helping as many people as she can find stability and a place to call home. In this Q&A, Blanca shares her journey into social work, what inspired her to join Front Steps, and how she finds joy both in and outside of work.
Q&A Interview:
- Can you share a little about yourself and your professional background?
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I was born in California and then moved to Texas where I studied social work and business at the University of Texas in El Paso. I then worked as a probation officer working with substance abuse and gang related groups. Social work has always been something I knew I wanted to do.
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- What drew you to this kind of work, and how did you get started in the field of social services?
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Growing up I saw the need to help families who had immigrated to the United States. There was a lack of resources at the time and I knew I could help. I always thought I would one day open up a non-profit to serve others. Since then I have been doing social work and case management, helping families, youth, and now veterans.
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- What inspired you to join Front Steps and take on your role as a case manager?
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I found Front Steps because I heard about it from my community. After, hearing about it I looked into their website and I wanted to be a part of what they did.
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- How have your personal and professional experiences shaped your approach to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness?
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I have seen people not getting help the way they’re supposed to. Experiencing that made me realize that it’s the way you approach that can make a big difference for the family. I have just always worked with people who had a need.
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- Outside of work, what are some hobbies, interests, or activities you enjoy?
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I like to meditate and help in my community at church
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- What motivates you to continue doing this work, even on challenging days?
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There is a solution to everything. I always tell people to change the negatives into something positive. There is always a solution and I like being the one who helps people see the positive.
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- Can you share a moment or experience with a client that deeply impacted you or shifted your perspective?
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There is one instance, a long time ago when I used to work with the youth, where there was a student who would never go to his classes. I asked him what was wrong and why is he not going to class. I said to him “do you not care? Let’s figure it out.” I began to ask him more and more questions until he said “I like to be in the water”. Instantly I knew, he can become an underwater welder. This young man had already been working on getting his welding license and when I mentioned the opportunity to him he lit up. He changed everything about him, he started going to classes, staying after school to study so he can pass his classes. And now he is thriving, going all over the world doing underwater welding. That moment for me was something I will never forget because there are a lot of people who have a negative mentality to life only because they don’t know their options.
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- How do you define success in your role?
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Seeing somebody accomplish something they thought was impossible. And the satisfaction of being part of that solution.
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- What do you wish more people understood about the realities of housing instability or homelessness in Austin?
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That there really is a need. These unhoused neighbors are still human. And sometimes all they need is a helping hand.
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- Is there a particular skill or area of expertise you’re eager to grow in while working here?
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I would say learning more in detail about how much more can we help, how much further can we go. I know there is more out there to help.
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- What message or piece of advice would you like to share with our community or the neighbors we serve?
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Just be supportive. Don’t judge anyone and always be kind.
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