Meet Marissa! She is one of our Front Steps Housing Case Managers who brings her full self to the work every day. She is a mom, advocate, listener, and support system. She knows firsthand that homelessness isn’t one-size-fits-all, and she shows up every day ready to meet people where they are and walk with them toward something better. Let’s get into her interview:
1. Can you share a little about yourself and your professional background?
“I am a Fort Worth native, married with 2 little boys (4 and 3 years old), favorite color is PURPLE, I enjoy cooking/baking for my loved ones. Majority of my professional background is working as a Case Manager for those experiencing homelessness and/or in need of rapid rehousing services. I have worked with individuals and families with varying ages of infancy to adults/elders in ensuring housing stability and longevity.”
2. What drew you to this kind of work, and how did you get started in the field of social services?
“My aunt, being a Social Worker herself, was one of the inspirations of me becoming a Social Worker. From as early as Kindergarten, I remember ALWAYS wanting to be at the teacher’s aide, the counselor’s aide, my friend’s aide…. I just LOVED to be of help to others. That’s kind of how I see Social Work…..coming to aide those in need!”
3. What inspired you to join Front Steps and take on your role as a case manager?
“What inspired me to join Front Steps was not only because of my friend Julia being here but because I felt strongly in my heart to give back to this population in dedication to my father who passed away almost 4 years ago. He served in the Army from 1990 to 1994. I have a deep appreciation for him serving this country and being the upright man God called him to be, though I wish he was here today for me to assist him with the resources that were not made available to him upon release from his duties.”
4. How have your personal and professional experiences shaped your approach to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness?
“Knowing and experiencing hardship/homelessness gives you a front row seat in the life of a lot of our previous/current clients. I always lead with compassion, kindness and understanding because most times, people just want their feelings validated, to be heard and feel seen.”
5. Outside of work, what are some hobbies, interests, or activities you enjoy?
“I enjoy going for walks at Lady Bird Lake with my family, cooking/baking, DIY projects and cuddling up on the couch with a glass of wine to catch up on my TV shows!
6. What motivates you to continue doing this work, even on challenging days?
“What motivates me to continue doing this work, even on challenging days, are my faith in God and being able to make a difference in my client’s lives no matter how big or small the task/challenge may be.”
7. Can you share a moment or experience with a client that deeply impacted you or shifted your perspective?
“I remember spending the night with my Aunt and her roommate in their college dorm; she was studying to be a Social Work major. I often times looked up to her like a Big Sister more than an Auntie, that’s just how close we were. I would, at times, go with my Aunt to one or two of her classes and observe (even though I knew nothing about what was being discussed). Upon graduation, she was employed at the very place I began my Social Work career as well!”
8. How do you define success in your role?
“Success as a Housing Case Manager means helping clients move toward stable housing while feeling seen, supported and empowered along the way.”
9. What do you wish more people understood about the realities of housing instability or homelessness in Austin?
“Homelessness looks different for everyone!”
10. Is there a particular skill or area of expertise you’re eager to grow in while working here?
“Just continue to grow my Social Work skills, resources, training and knowledge.”
11. What message or piece of advice would you like to share with our community or the neighbors we serve?
“Be the change that you want to see in the world” – respectfully by Mahatma Gandhi
12. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that they don’t already know about you?
“Old school music lives in my soul! Some of my favorites are Stevie Wonder, Anita Baker, Mint Condition, New Edition, Guy, Jodeci, The Force MDs, and MANY MORE!”