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STORIES FROM THE FIELD
Hospitality House owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to the dozens of dedicated staff who’ve devoted themselves to lifting up the best of our community - day in, day out. The work is challenging. It is meaningful. It is transformative. And, all too often, their work is overlooked and undervalued. These valiant nonprofit warriors - community builders all - are often underpaid and underappreciated. We are proud to present “Stories From The Field” as an ongoing series about the people on the front lines, about the contributions of just a few of the thousands of nonprofit workers. We’ll share some of their challenges and successes - and some of their dreams.
A landmark Controller’s report in April 2023 - an analysis of more than 16,000 FTEs - acknowledged the prevalence of low wages in the nonprofit workforce, and the racial inequity in the field. According to the report, an estimated 75%of the general (non-executive) nonprofit workforce is Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC). The report found further that 50% of the nonprofit workforce earns less than $25.25 per hour, struggling to support their own families while making life better for others. The report also identified the case management position as a key staff position in the nonprofit workforce - helping people with housing, employment, mental health needs - accounting for barely 8% of the workforce yet nearly 30% of the staff vacancies. Low wages compromise the City's ability to meet its goals, and increase the burden on nonprofit workers. We hope that the stories of those helping to make life better for all of us in the City of St. Francis - will inspire City leaders to make our nonprofit workers’ lives better. |
MEET EDUARDO LEON
Employment Program Coordinator
Photo by Kris Sosa
I’m doing what I was meant to do.” |
Eduardo Leon is Program Coordinator for Hospitality House’s Employment Program. His story is one of transformation—a journey from hardship to hope, from seeking help to becoming the one who provides it.
Eduardo's path to Hospitality House began in the streets of San Francisco’s Tenderloin and SOMA districts, where he worked as an attendant for city-run public restrooms. The job provided stability, but Eduardo knew he wanted more. His opportunity came through an unplanned conversation with Tiffany Jackson, one of the leaders at Hospitality House. That chance encounter changed his trajectory. “I introduced myself to Tiffany right on Sixth Street,” Eduardo recalls. “I said, ‘Hey Tiffany, my name’s Eduardo. I heard you’re looking for workers.’ She asked me, ‘Are you bilingual?’ I said, ‘Sí.’ And just like that, she told me to come in.” Within a week, Eduardo interviewed for a peer advocate position. In just three months, he became a case manager. A year later, his colleagues encouraged him to apply for the Program Coordinator position, one he initially hesitated to take. “They told me, ‘Come on, you’re already doing the job. We trust you. We respect you.’ That sense of empowerment pushed me to take the leap,” Eduardo says. Eduardo has known personal struggles. Raised in a low-income household as the eldest of seven siblings, he watched his mother, Rosa, work tirelessly to provide for the family. “She’s my hero,” he says with pride. “Her resilience, her empathy—she instilled that in me. She treated everyone with respect, whether they were a CEO or a janitor.” Eduardo sees himself in the clients who walk through Hospitality House’s doors, particularly the growing number of monolingual Spanish speakers and undocumented workers hesitant to ask for help, fearing immigration enforcement or discrimination. Eduardo's presence reassures them. “You’re safe here. We’ve got resources. We’ve got you.” he would say. The work isn’t without challenges, especially the emotional weight of listening to people’s struggles day after day. “You take on their burdens, and that can be overwhelming,” he admits. “It took time for me to learn to practice self-care. Thankfully, I had great mentors like Tiffany and other coworkers who showed me the way.” Eduardo's journey has come full circle, from a young man looking for work to an acknowledged leader creating opportunities for others. When asked what motivates him, he doesn’t hesitate: “I’m doing what I was meant to do.” This story is dedicated to Mama Rosa, whose kindness and strength continue to inspire her son and everyone he touches - including all of us at Hospitality House |
MEET TXUTXO PEREZCommunity Arts Program Studio Assistant
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Photo by Paolo Ascuncion
I work with art, with people interested in art, and I see them grow . I can do something significant in other people’s lives.” 
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For nearly two decades, Txutxo Perez (pronounced “Choo-Cho”) has been a cornerstone of Hospitality House’s Community Arts Program. A true artist at heart, his journey is as colorful and intricate as the silkscreen prints and paintings he creates, embodying resilience, community, and a deep love for art. Txutxo's connection with art began during his childhood in Mexico when he assisted his father in restoring colonial churches. “My dad was an artist,” Txutxo shared, recalling how he learned the craft of gilding and restoration. His early exposure to art set the foundation for a lifelong passion that carried him through his studies at the National University of Mexico, where he earned his art degree. He even served a stint in the Mexican Army, using his silkscreening skills to create logos for the country's military uniforms. When Txutxo arrived in the United States, a drive through Skid Row in Los Angeles left a lasting impression. “I couldn’t believe it,” he said, reflecting on the stark reality of homelessness in one of the richest countries in the world. This eye-opening experience further solidified his desire to use art as a means of connection and healing. Txutxo's journey to Hospitality House began serendipitously. After running his own studio in the Mission District, he was invited to revive a dormant silkscreen program at the organization. Starting with minimal resources—“old tables and recycled materials”—he transformed the program into a thriving space where creativity flourishes. “Today, it’s like day and night,” Perez remarked, noting the studio’s growth and the caliber of artwork it produces. Hospitality House has helped Txutxo find his calling as a teacher. “What I learned in art school in [several] years, I can teach here in weeks,” he said. Watching community members grow into skilled artists is a source of pride. “It’s very satisfying when I see people work on their own,” he added, highlighting the transformative power of art in fostering independence and confidence. Txutxo sees himself as part of a larger mission to create a sense of belonging and empowerment. “When I came to Hospitality House, it resonated with my will to help people,” he said. The organization’s commitment to social justice aligns with his own values, deeply rooted in the community-oriented culture of his upbringing. “It’s the (sense of) community in Mexico. In our neighborhoods, we grew up very tight and looked out for each other.” Perez also acknowledges the challenges posed by systemic issues. The growing homelessness crisis and limited resources weigh heavily on him. “Why can’t we get more [support]?” he questioned. Yet, he remains hopeful, inspired by the resilience of those he works with and the progress he has witnessed over the years. For Txutxo, Hospitality House is more than a workplace—it’s a dream job. “I work with art, with people interested in art, and I see them grow,” he shared. His contributions, both as an artist and a mentor, have left an indelible mark on the community. As he contemplates the next chapter of his life, possibly returning to Mexico to open a studio, Txutxo reflects on the profound impact of his time at Hospitality House. “It’s been very important in my life,” he said “I am proud to work at Hospitality House.”” Through his art and dedication, Txutxo Perez exemplifies the transformative power of creativity and the enduring strength of community. For nearly two decades, Txutxo Perez has been an artistic treasure for Hospitality House and the neighborhood artists who inspire him. |
MEET JOHN ELLISON
Shelter Program Peer Advocate
We’re all in this together—every small success leads to something greater. |
John has been an integral part of the Hospitality House team for 12 years. John’s journey has taken him from San Diego, California to Atlanta, Georgia, and eventually back to San Francisco. When he first arrived in the city, John faced homelessness. With his savings depleted, a friend introduced him to Hospitality House, where he found the motivation to rebuild his life.
John volunteered at Hospitality House for nearly nine months, and his determination and commitment helped him land an on-call janitorial position. John soon transitioned to a full-time role, proving indispensable in virtually every agency program. Today, he serves as a Shelter Peer Advocate, helping others on their path toward stability and self-sufficiency. Reflecting on his journey, John shares," Hospitality House gave me the resources to get back on my feet. Now, I’m proud to give back by helping others see their worth and potential. We’re all in this together—every small success leads to something greater." Through hard work, diligent saving, and unwavering focus, John moved out of the shelter system and secured permanent housing, paving the way for greater independence. His journey with Hospitality House is profoundly personal; the organization that once uplifted him is now the platform through which he inspires others. Having experienced homelessness, John brings a unique and compassionate perspective to his role in the Hospitality House shelter. He understands community members' struggles and works tirelessly to remind them of their inherent dignity and humanity. His humor and kindness are powerful tools, often brightening someone’s day with a simple smile or kind words. "Witnessing the inhumanity people sometimes show one another motivates me to spread joy and compassion,” John says thoughtfully. “If I can make just one person smile each day, I know I’ve made a difference." For John, the most fulfilling part of his work is celebrating the big and small victories of the community members he serves. Whether helping someone secure housing, regain control of their life, or achieve a personal milestone, John finds immense joy in being part of their journey. Outside of work, John prioritizes self-care and personal growth. He enjoys reading on his Kindle or Nook, listening to music, and playing computer games—simple pleasures that help him maintain balance and peace. John offers this reminder for all of us, "Life is short enough as it is—find joy in the moment!" That’s something to smile about... |
MEET MARQUAZE TAYBRON
Operations Team
It’s about showing love, being a team player, and caring for the people in our community |
Twelve years ago, Marquaze first learned about Hospitality House while working at Clean City, when a counselor at Clean City saw potential in him and suggested he apply to Hospitality House. “I wasn’t familiar with (Hospitality House) at the time,” Marquaze recalled. “But I was ready to do something different.” That leap of faith turned out to be a pivotal moment in his life.
When Marquaze started at Hospitality House, the environment was at times chaotic, especially during the winter months. Marquaze admits his transition was challenging. However, the organization’s mission quickly resonated with him. “I realized it wasn’t just a (custodial) job,” he said. “It’s about showing love, being a team player, and caring for the people in our community.” Over the years, Marquaze has grown from his experiences at Hospitality House and credits the organization with teaching him responsibility, patience, and empathy. Marquaze found the courage to re-evaluate his life and even consider returning to school. “Without Hospitality House, I don’t know where I’d be,” he shared. Now, Marquaze is taking online health classes to earn an associate degree and explore opportunities in the health field. Marquaze admits that living and working in the Tenderloin can be overwhelming, and staying focused remains a daily struggle. Yet, Marquaze reflects, “I grow every day. It’s slow, like how the earth rotates, but it’s progress.” Marquaze relishes the opportunity to give back to the community. “We care for people who don’t have a lot,” he said. “It’s a great deed, and not many jobs can say that.” Marquaze’s journey is deeply personal. Growing up with a single mother and facing challenges at home, he found himself drawn to the streets at an early age. Those experiences shaped what Marquaze thought he knew of responsibility. Now, as a father of two—an 18-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter— he’s committed to being a role model for his children. “They inspire me to keep going,” he said. Reflecting on his time at Hospitality House, Marquaze knows the value of continuous self-improvement. “I want to show everyone around me that I’m growing and making progress,” he said. Marquaze’s story is a powerful reminder of how transformative community work can be—not just for those being served, but for those doing the serving. Inspiring. |
MEET LYSS DURAN
Housing Liaison Case Manager
Sleeping in a car with my daughter inspired me to help others. I know firsthand what it feels like to lack support. |
Lyss' journey is a story of resilience and inspiration. Originally from Peru, she moved to San Francisco as a child but spent years shuttling between the East Coast and the Bay Area. As a teenager, she chose to stay in San Francisco when she became pregnant. However, without family support, Lyss experienced the harsh reality of sleeping in her car with her newborn daughter. Determined to create a better future for her family, she became her best advocate, navigating immense challenges with strength and perseverance.
Lyss first discovered Hospitality House through a co-worker who shared their transformative experience with the organization. Curious and inspired, she sought out Hospitality House and immediately felt a deep connection. “It’s familiar, like home,” she says, reflecting on the empathy and acceptance she encountered. Lyss was particularly moved by how Hospitality House created a safe space where community members could genuinely be themselves while making changes in their lives. Today, Lyss draws from her lived experiences in her role as an Employment Housing Liaison with Hospitality House's Employment Program. Drawing on her personal struggles, she supports community members in rebuilding their lives. Her work includes helping community members obtain identification, craft effective resumes, select interview attire, and participate in mock interviews. Additionally, she connects individuals with permanent housing —no small feat in the face of San Francisco’s ongoing housing crisis. Lyss’ personal experiences deeply inform her work. “Sleeping in a car with my daughter inspired me to help others,” she shares. “I know firsthand what it feels like to lack support.” She finds inspiration in her children, her mother, and the Hospitality House family. “The leadership here has real stories to share—stories rooted in life experiences that reflect those of the community we serve. That connection motivates me every day.” Lyss started as an on-call staff, and credits Tiffany Jackson, Program Manager, for motivating her and helping her grow within the agency. As a single mother, Lyss manages personal challenges, including working two jobs while juggling her career with her children’s school and after-school activities. Finding balance is no easy task, but her determination keeps her moving forward. Lyss’s story is a testament to resilience, community, and the transformative power of lived experience. “My goal is to help people find stability and regain hope for a brighter future,” Lyss says proudly. We think the future is bright for Lyss and her family. And for Hospitality House. |
MEET ALISHA COLEMAN
Shelter Program Manager
I believe all people have equal value and are worthy of honor and respect. 
Alisha Coleman with her Shelter Team
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Alisha joined Hospitality House inspired by a lifelong desire to help others. “Once I applied and realized the incredible work being done here, I knew this was an organization I wanted to be a part of,” she shares.
As the Shelter Program Manager, Alisha finds fulfillment in her role, especially in moments when her decisions can positively transform lives. She loves witnessing residents receive keys to their new homes, marking a fresh start as they exit the shelter system. “It’s exciting to see someone begin a new chapter,” she says with a smile. Reflecting on her journey, Alisha recalls one of her most memorable experiences: stepping into her leadership role during the pandemic. “We faced the unknown together as a team, building trust and relationships within the community,” she says. During that challenging time, her team helped 22 residents secure permanent housing in a single building, preserving the community the residents had built together“The reward was in the smiles and the shared sense of accomplishment - we were all transformed by that experience.” Alisha’s values align deeply with Hospitality House’s mission. “I believe all people have equal value and are worthy of honor and respect,” she explains. “We are all just one paycheck away from needing the same services we provide. That’s why it’s so important to be kind—no matter what.” Looking ahead, Alisha is eager to see Hospitality House continue to grow and elevate itself, both as an organization and through its impact on individuals’ lives. Thank you, Alisha, for your unwavering dedication and compassion - and above all, your heart! |
MEET KEVIN SPARKS
Community Organizaing Peer Advocate - Community Building Program
How can I keep myself safe and learn some things? 
"If I had a magic wand, I would..." - Kevin shares the responses from community members of the Healing, Organizing, and Leadership Development group.
Kevin organizing the community during Walk with Windy and Vote event.
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Kevin Sparks’ life story is one of radical transformation, shaped not just by his determination but by the power of community. After nearly 20 years in prison and decades of hard knocks and wrong turns, Kevin stumbled upon Hospitality House. It was a chance encounter, but it became the foundation for rewriting his narrative.
“I was trying to get an ID voucher,” Kevin recalls, “It was hard for me to sustain myself…without any ID, Social Security card. How can I keep myself safe and learn some things?” Hospitality House was a profound new experience for Kevin. “It was so welcoming here when I first came in,” he says. “I’d never really seen that before, coming out of where I’d been.” That small gesture would go on to redefine his sense of self. Kevin started as a volunteer for the organization’s Community Building Program (CBP), an opportunity that became his first step toward stability. He gradually let go of the “tough shell” he’d built during years of incarceration and relearned how to connect with people. He met unhoused individuals “where they were”-not with judgment, but with kindness. “I’d say, ‘Good morning,’ to people on the sidewalk, and at first, they wouldn’t respond,” he recalls. “But I kept at it. Over time, they’d start smiling, saying yes to a cup of coffee, and eventually, I’d see them move into housing or find jobs.” It was through these small, consistent acts that Kevin not only learned how to connect with others but also discovered himself. When he transitioned from volunteer to employee, the achievement was deeply personal. “I remember calling my mom when I got my (employee) badge,” Kevin says. “I told her, ‘Mom, I’ve got a job.’ She was so happy. I’d never held a job for more than two months before.” Today, Kevin works as a peer advocate /community organizer at Hospitality House, where he helps facilitate the Healing, Organizing, and Leadership Development (HOLD) group and creates initiatives that empower residents. “It’s about what they want for themselves, “ Kevin says” I get to meet them where they’re at and assist them in getting there.” But challenges remain. Living in San Francisco, Kevin and many of his colleagues struggle with the high cost of living. “Most of us work two jobs just to pay rent,” he says. “Or live out of the City. It’s a real struggle to find time for family… .” Despite these barriers, Kevin is filled with hope and determination. Encouraged by mentors like Associate Executive Director Windy Click, who once told him to envision himself as an executive director, Kevin dreams big. “It’s [Hospitality House]changed my life, and I want others to have that opportunity too.” Kevin Sparks’ journey reminds us that redemption is not just an individual act but a collective one—made possible by the presence of compassion, opportunity, and the relentless belief that no one is beyond hope. “When I walked through those doors, I was given a chance,” he says. “And I can’t forget that.” |
MEET ANTHONY HERNANDEZ
Bilingual Case Manager - Shelter Program
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A Case Manager with Passion and PurposeIn the heart of our Shelter Program, Anthony Hernandez stands out not just for his professional achievements but for the profound personal journey that has shaped his role as a Shelter Case Manager. Driven by a deep-seated passion for helping others, Anthony's story is a testament to dedication, creativity, and the power of community support.
Anthony's journey began in a single-parent household where he took on the responsibility of caring for his two younger siblings. This early experience of responsibility and care laid the foundation for his career in social services. After graduating high school in 2016, Anthony explored various avenues, first attending community college and then venturing into barber school. His interests in fitness and fashion, particularly in making clothes, reflect his creative spirit and commitment to personal growth. During the pandemic, Anthony worked with a security company, making significant connections with the staff at the Hospitality House Shelter in Place (SIP) site. His dedication and natural ability to connect with people did not go unnoticed. When a position for a peer advocate opened up, Anthony seized the opportunity, transitioning from security guard to a role where he could directly and positively impact individuals' lives. Anthony's journey continued as he became a bilingual case manager, managing a caseload of 22 men at the HH shelter. His daily work involves making solid connections with community members, celebrating their successes, and providing support as they work towards their goals. For Anthony, seeing clients smile when they achieve their milestones is the ultimate reward. Anthony's most rewarding accomplishment is deeply intertwined with the support he has received from the Hospitality House community. Reflecting on his role, he shares, "The most rewarding accomplishment would be HH pushing me and believing in me to [succeed in] this new position as a case manager. This was my first time working in this particular field of work, and it was quite nerve-wracking at first. But with the support and belief of HH, I ended up loving this position!" |
One of Anthony's most memorable experiences at HH was assisting a community member in saving his Section 8 voucher. Faced with imminent eviction, the client needed urgent help, and Anthony's problem-solving skills ensured that the client could keep his permanent housing. This experience highlights Anthony's dedication to meeting immediate needs and securing long-term stability for those he serves.
Anthony Hernandez's story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make through passion, hard work, and the support of a nurturing community. His journey from a family caregiver to a dedicated case manager exemplifies the values of empathy and commitment that drive our mission forward.
We are grateful for Anthony's unwavering dedication and the positive difference he makes in the lives of our community members. His story inspires us all to continue supporting and uplifting each other, reaffirming the core values of compassion and service that define our work.
Anthony Hernandez's story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make through passion, hard work, and the support of a nurturing community. His journey from a family caregiver to a dedicated case manager exemplifies the values of empathy and commitment that drive our mission forward.
We are grateful for Anthony's unwavering dedication and the positive difference he makes in the lives of our community members. His story inspires us all to continue supporting and uplifting each other, reaffirming the core values of compassion and service that define our work.
MEET THEODIS BEASLEY
Case Manager - Tenderloin Self-Help Center
I had to get over my old life because it made me feel like I was somebody that I wasn't 
Theodis tries an acai bowl for the very first time.
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Second chances hold profound meaning for personal redemption and transformation. Theodis Beasley, a case manager at Hospitality House, exemplifies the transformative power of second chances.
Theodis Beasley came to Hospitality House after he was released from prison. Theodis was seeking a path that would allow him to give back to the community he felt he had previously taken from. His search for meaningful work led him to the social service field, where he began working at shelters and engaging in nonprofit work. This experience ignited a passion within him to continue helping others. Theodis shared, “I was fresh out of prison…[and] I made a promise to myself…on this side of the fence as a free person, in a positive light. I need to do something constructive. I need to make a change.” Theodis started at Hospitality House as an on-call janitor, with a strong desire to become a case manager to help others in ways he wished he had been helped. Theodis’s aspiration was about more than career advancement; it was about making a tangible difference in the lives of those in similar situations to what he had once faced. The journey from janitor to case manager was not without its challenges. The support Theodis received from his colleagues at Hospitality House (in particular Executive Director Joe Wilson and Program Manager at the time, Dewayne Cobb) played a crucial role in his transformation. One of the pivotal moments for Theodis was being encouraged by Joe and Dewayne to apply for a case manager position. Their belief in his abilities and their insistence that he step out of his comfort zone were key factors in his decision to apply. Theodis recounts,. “Dewayne told me to stop being okay with being comfortable. Learn something new. Get uncomfortable. You do well in uncomfortable. Why are you okay with just what is easy to do?” He recalls the anxiety he felt during the interview process, but with the encouragement and advice from Dewayne, he was able to successfully overcome his fears. “That interview was one of the scariest days for me and Dewayne [said], ‘You know everybody here(on the interview panel). Calm down, chill, make somebody laugh or something, and then roll into it.’ So I took his advice and I rolled into it. The outcome is me being a case manager!” Throughout his time at Hospitality House, Theodis has faced and overcome significant challenges in letting go of his old life and the mentalities associated with it. He learned to be “empathetic rather than sympathetic”, and to be open to the positive and negative possibilities that come with change. “Hospitality House allowed me to be me and still showed me that there was something I was running from, which is my true self, right? That was a challenge for me in the early stages. In order to become something that you want, [sometimes] you have to let go of what you were. I had to get over my old life because it made me feel like I was somebody that I wasn't,” Theodis reflected. Theodis’ influential presence at Hospitality House has helped deepen our commitment to peer-based training and development for all our staff, as a necessary investment in community empowerment. Theodis’ commitment to his own family, his quiet but steady leadership, and his renewed sense of purpose inspire those around him. The future holds promise for Theodis, and he continues to help others realize it as well. Theodis adds, "Letting people know that whatever you went through last night, how can we build today?" Theodis Beasley. A voice of experience. The power of second chances. |
MEET MAY CHAPPELL
Peer Advocate - Sixth Street Self-Help Center
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May Chappell first discovered Hospitality House after having been homeless, and recovering from a debilitating back injury. While walking through the Tenderloin, searching for places that could help, May bumped into John Ellison, a HH staff member who used to work at another shelter. John encouraged May to try Hospitality House. “Ever since then, I’ve been hooked on Hospitality House,” May says.
May started volunteering almost immediately, and secured help getting more permanent housing and other support along the way. May drew from her experience overcoming drug addiction to support and encourage others – even as a volunteer. “Sometimes we have good days, sometimes we have bad days,“ May says reflectively. After a pause, May adds, “I get it.” May volunteered for nearly three years, before deciding to apply for a job at Hospitality House. She interviewed, but didn’t get the job. May confesses that she has always struggled with self-confidence and esteem, but other HH staff boosted her confidence and urged her not to give up. May stayed positive. She continued volunteering. Some months later, May applied again. This time, she was hired as a Peer Advocate. |
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May credits her strong faith in helping her overcome trauma and tragedy in her life - homelessness, drug addiction, even deaths of close family members. May feels that her experiences with grief and loss has strengthened her ability to empathize with others. “Sometimes I’ve laughed, and sometimes I’ve sat [in someone’s office] and cried,” May admits. “I try to take the negative part and give them something positive,“ May adds. “I don’t mind loving on someone.”
May can also empathize with the euphoria that comes from obtaining housing, and the sense of personal accomplishment. “I know that when they put keys in your hand and you can unlock your own door [and come and go when you want] that’s a really good feeling,“ May shares. “I know that feeling.” May also knows first-hand that lives are affected every day by the fentanyl crisis - and what it means to save a life. A couple of years ago, a former staff member responded to a potential overdose, and talked May through the steps of administering Narcan (Naloxone) to reverse the potentially fatal effects of opioid overdose. “He showed me what to do, and talked me through it,” May recalls. Since that first experience learning in the midst of a crisis, May has become the acknowledged leader of her Sixth Street team in handling overdose incidents. She’s responded to more than a half dozen overdose episodes. Every single one survived. “I use my hands and my knowledge and my [faith],” May says matter-of-factly. “We’re here for the community.” May shares a deep connection with her Hospitality House coworkers, and over the years, has been encouraged and supported by several members of the agency’s leadership team. In the midst of challenges and crises, of successes and struggles, May knows she is part of building something special. “We all work together, including community members, so it’s not just me,“ May says appreciatively. “It’s a family thing.” |
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MEET LINDSAY MOODIE
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Lindsay started working at Hospitality House more than three years ago, after working at St. Anthony Foundation. From day one, even when starting out as a Hospitality House peer advocate/counselor, Lindsay’s goal was to be a case manager. “I always wanted to do something good for somebody else today, and I never got around to doing it,” Lindsay says.
Lindsay openly acknowledges her prior struggles with drug addiction - but credits those struggles as helping her in her work. “ Everyday…I see people doing the same things I did, and it’s scary sometimes,” Lindsay admits. She also shares there are moments when maintaining healthy boundaries is difficult. Lindsay openly reveals that, “Reminiscing about those times…[can be] one of my personal challenges.” |
MEET EBONY WALLACE
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Ebony’s relationship with Hospitality House dates back nearly 15 years when she used the Employment Resource Center’s computer lab to apply for an entry-level job at Chevron. “Just being around the neighborhood, I knew about Hospitality House,” Ebony recalls. “I also used to print out concert tickets,” She says gratefully.
Ebony talks about the good things that can happen when timing meets opportunity. “When one of my friends [got a job here],” Ebony remembers. “ I decided to interview and I got hired - they needed people because of the pandemic - at the Shelter-In-Place (SIP) hotel.” Ebony distinguished herself as dependable employee, a fast learner, and attuned to support resident’s needs. “ We all have different programs, but at the end of the day,” Ebony shares reflectively, “ It’s helping people in a time of need. It’s doing right by the community.” |
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Ebony shares a vivid example of what ‘doing right by the community’ can mean - in the extreme. She saved two people’s lives - acting courageously, calmly AND quickly - who might have died from drug overdose. “It was about not being nervous, you know, and just putting everything to the side,” Ebony shares confidently. “I was actually on my lunch break and saw it happen. It was just quick, quick thinking.”
Despite the inaction of other community-based workers nearby, Ebony raced back to Hospitality House, obtained the needed doses of Narcan, and administered them – multiple doses were needed. Then Ebony waited until the emergency medical team arrived. “ Others ruled out Narcan,” Ebony says matter-of-factly. “ I didn’t.” For Ebony, it’s simple. “ I like coming to work. I love my job.” Lindsay and Ebony are just two stories among many. Their stories highlight the reality of low wages in the nonprofit workforce - and the consequences in meeting our stated priorities to address homelessness and the crisis of health needs affecting adults, youth and families. Black History Month and Women’s History Month - and the Year of the Dragon as backdrop - provide opportunities to galvanize more investment in the City’s predominately BIPOC nonprofit workforce, so that all communities can share in the City’s economic recovery. |
