As a case manager, we are steadily finding the balance between office work and providing direct real-time service to our Veteran clients while out in the community. No day is the same as life happens, and we handle ongoing circumstances as they occur.
Working the Case
We are present at the beginning stages when a Veteran is looking for permanent housing, but really step in after they are housed. It is unrealistic to expect someone to focus on other goals before their basic needs of shelter and safety are met. Once the Veteran is stably housed, we help the Veteran work through a housing stability plan and budget to ensure they are taking active steps towards maintaining their housing.
Case managers engage in regular contact with clients to ensure they are motivated and accountable to their goals. As a case management team, we talk daily so we can bounce ideas off each other and stay up to date with what is going on in each of our clients’ lives.
Building Relationships
In order to provide the best service, we rely on community connections to local resources. We work closely with partner agencies to seek out the best possible connections to help the Veteran tackle upcoming needs and obstacles. These include the HUD-VASH through the VA, One Door, the Homeless Veterans Task Force, Burrell Behavioral Health, the Red Cross, OACAC, Veterans Upward Bound, and Harmony House. Community outreach helps us discover new resources and spread information about the program. We are always learning, training, and attending events to stay current in the world of Veteran affairs and ending homelessness.
Remi Anders, Home at Last Case Manager
