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1 Creating Your Ideal Human Services System Learner’s Name Human Services Department, Capella University HMSV8004 Advance Human Services Leadership and Practices Dr. Derrick Traylor Due Date

2 Creating Your Ideal Human Services System Introduction Homelessness is a significant issue affecting numerous countries and societies globally. People become homeless due to various factors that include loss of employment or underemployment, drug abuse and addiction, mental illnesses, as well as domestic violence. This has necessitated the human services sector to develop homeless shelter assistance systems to help address the issue and offer safe and secure places for homeless persons and families regardless of their races, ethnicity, gender, and religion. Each homeless individual should be treated with equal rights and accorded proper services. Homeless Shelter Assistance System The shelter assistance system aims to address the pressing problems and needs of individuals who lack proper shelter. The system is designed to address issues such as homelessness, inadequate housing conditions, and lack of emergency shelters. The focus of the paper is a shelter assistance system helping the homeless. The problem that needs to be addressed is offering temporary residences for homeless individuals and families (Kim & Garcia, 2019). Another problem they serve is the lack of access to sanitary spaces where people can bathe and take a change of clothes, especially those who choose to live in their vehicles. The reasons I chose these specific problems are because they are prevalent and urgent and affect numerous people in our community. Homelessness is a growing issue in many cities and communities around the world, necessitating the need to find effective solutions for individuals in this situation (Kim & Garcia, 2019). Additionally, countless individuals and families are living in substandard housing conditions, which negatively impact their health and overall well-being. Another reason is that the lack of emergency shelters for homeless persons

3 leaves individuals exposed and unprotected during times of crisis that include natural disasters, economic downturns, and pandemics such as COVID-19. Tackling these issues can help improve the lives of the people impacted by homelessness. Homelessness is an issue that not only affects individuals directly but also has a significant impact on communities as a whole; by offering a stable and secure residence option, homeless shelter assistance systems can help people regain and rebuild their lives and independence, and positively contribute to society. Moreover, improving living conditions for those in substandard housing will significantly improve their quality of life and overall health. This will reduce their exposure to severe conditions such as during winter or summer, and reduce their chances of contracting diseases due to poor hygiene. Furthermore, having a strong system of emergency shelters will ensure that individuals and families have a safe place to go during times of crisis, reducing the risk of harm and displacement. The implications for problems that are omitted from this shelter assistance system are significant. However, due to the limited resources and scope of this specific system, certain problems may not be directly addressed. For example, issues related to affordable housing or housing discrimination may require separate initiatives or policies to be effectively addressed (Wusinich et al., 2019). It is, therefore, important to recognize that this system is just one piece of the puzzle in addressing the larger issue of housing insecurity. The impact of the homeless shelter assistance system would be immense as individuals experiencing homelessness or inadequate housing conditions would benefit immensely from access to safe and secure shelter. Additionally, communities would benefit from reduced homelessness rates and improved living conditions, leading to a more stable and prosperous society as a whole.

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4 Funding for the homeless shelter system is derived from both the public and private sectors. Government funding could be allocated towards building and maintaining shelters. The U.S. federal government has a funding system that helps the homeless across the country/ Through the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Grants Program, the federal government funds the homeless shelter assistance systems in the country to ensure that the homeless can access safe shelters across the country (End Homelessness, 2019). The private sector (businesses, corporations, NGOs, and individuals) donations could help support ongoing operations and services provided within these shelters. Partnerships with non-profit organizations, community groups, and corporate entities could also play a significant role in funding this system. To ensure effective organization and implementation, collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders would be essential. A centralized database could be established to manage the allocation of shelter spaces and track individual progress toward securing permanent housing. Additionally, partnerships with local service providers such as healthcare providers, employment agencies, and educational institutions could be formed to offer comprehensive support for individuals utilizing the shelter assistance system. Multidisciplinary Collaboration Analysis One of the key aspects of the success of the homeless shelter assistance system would be cultivating multidisciplinary collaboration, which entails bringing together experts from various fields, such as architecture, engineering, social work, and psychology to work together towards a common goal. By combining their expertise and perspectives, these professionals can create holistic solutions that address not only the physical shelter needs but also the emotional and

5 social well-being of the people seeking assistance. For instance, a team of architects works alongside engineers to design shelters that are not only structurally sound but also environmentally sustainable (Wyatt, 2022). They could incorporate renewable energy sources, efficient water management systems, and innovative materials to ensure that the shelters are not only comfortable but also have a minimal impact on the environment. By collaborating with experts in sustainable design, they could create shelters that are not just temporary solutions but also contribute positively to the long-term well-being of the communities they serve. Furthermore, by involving social workers in the process, the multidisciplinary team can gain insights into the unique needs and challenges faced by those seeking shelter. Social workers can provide valuable input on how to create spaces that are safe, inclusive, and conducive to homeless people and families (Urada et al., 2022). According to Urada et al. (2022), social workers can help identify specific populations that may require specialized support, such as survivors of domestic violence, children, or individuals with disabilities. By working together with social workers, architects and engineers can design shelters that are not only functional but also promote dignity, autonomy, and empowerment. Psychologists also play a crucial role in multidisciplinary collaboration within a homeless shelter assistance system. They can offer insights into the psychological impact of homelessness and associated trauma, helping inform the design of spaces that promote mental health and well- being (Switzer & Rakos, 2022). By incorporating elements of nature, creating communal spaces for social interaction, and ensuring privacy for individuals and families, psychologists can contribute to creating environments that foster resilience and support emotional healing. The cultivation of multidisciplinary collaboration within a homeless shelter assistance system supersedes just bringing professionals together; it needs a culture of respect, open

6 communication, and shared decision-making. Each member of the team should be valued for their unique expertise and perspectives, and their contributions should be acknowledged and integrated into the final solutions. Regular meetings and workshops can be organized to facilitate knowledge-sharing and brainstorming sessions where ideas can be explored collaboratively. This will help develop sound solutions towards offering safe and conducive homeless shelters for people struggling with the issue of homelessness. The Necessary Attributes of Human Services Professionals Within the Homeless Shelter Assistance System. Several attributes are crucial for the success of a homeless shelter assistance system. For direct service providers such as social workers, empathy and compassion are essential qualities. These individuals are on the front lines, working directly with individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless (Qian & Hauser, 2022). They need to be able to connect with these individuals on a personal level, understand their unique circumstances, and provide the support that they need. As the National Health Care for the Homeless Council (NHCHC) states, "a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude toward people experiencing homelessness is essential for effective service provision" (NHCHC, 2019). Direct service providers also need to be skilled in problem-solving and resourcefulness. They often encounter complex situations that require creative solutions. Whether it is finding temporary housing for a family or connecting an individual with mental health services, these providers need to think outside the box and navigate various systems to ensure that their clients receive the help they need (Qian & Hauser, 2022). According to the NHCHC, direct service providers should possess "skills in case management, crisis intervention, advocacy, and

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7 knowledge about resources" (NHCHC, 2019). These attributes enable them to assist individuals in their journey towards stable housing effectively. On the other hand, leaders within the homeless shelter assistance system require a different set of attributes. Leadership in this context is about guiding and directing the overall operations of the system, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. One important attribute for leaders is strategic thinking. They must have a clear vision for the homeless shelter assistance system and be able to develop long-term goals that align with this vision (Bass, 2019). Strategic thinking allows leaders to anticipate challenges and plan accordingly, ensuring that the system can adapt and grow to meet the needs of those it serves. Another crucial attribute for leaders is strong communication skills. As leaders, they are responsible for overseeing multiple teams and coordinating efforts across various stakeholders. Effective communication allows leaders to convey their vision and goals clearly while also fostering collaboration among team members (Bass, 2019). According to a study published in the Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, effective communication is vital in creating a "shared understanding of purpose and direction," which ultimately leads to better outcomes for those receiving shelter assistance (Kertesz et al., 2016). Strategies to ensure DEI is addressed. One of the most notable aspects of the homeless shelter assistance system is how it considers the unique needs of different populations. It recognizes that each group may face distinct challenges when it comes to housing, and therefore, tailor-made solutions are required. For example, homeless veterans may require specialized support that addresses their specific experiences and traumas. Similarly, families with children may need assistance in finding stable housing options near schools and childcare facilities (Mosley, 2021). By acknowledging and

8 addressing these diverse needs, the homeless shelter assistance system ensures that everyone receives the help they need, regardless of their circumstances. Equitable access is a fundamental principle of the homeless shelter assistance system. It aims to ensure that individuals and families have fair and equal opportunities to access housing support (Aykanian et al., 2020). This is achieved through various strategies, such as prioritizing those in urgent need. Priority is given to individuals who are in dire need of shelter, particularly children, people with disabilities, and the sick (O’Regan et al., 2021). Another strategy is implementing non-discriminatory policies that ensure fair treatment in each case of a homeless person regardless of gender, race, or religion. Another approach is working towards reducing barriers that might prevent certain populations from accessing assistance, such as language barriers or lack of documentation (O’Regan et al., 2021). By promoting equitable access, the shelter assistance system strives to create a level playing field for all individuals seeking help. Ethical issues are handled with utmost care within the shelter assistance system. The well-being and dignity of individuals seeking assistance are always a top priority. Ethical guidelines are in place to ensure that individuals are treated with respect, privacy, and confidentiality throughout the process (Aykanian et al., 2020). Moreover, the system emphasizes transparency in decision-making and accountability in resource allocation. It also actively addresses any potential conflicts of interest among staff members or stakeholders involved in the provision of shelter assistance. By upholding ethical standards, the system aims to provide compassionate and fair support while maintaining trust and integrity. How Data-driven Decision-making would be incorporated in organizing or running the Homeless Shelter Assistance System.

9 One of the significant elements of the homeless shelter assistance system is data-driven decision-making, which entails collecting and analyzing data to inform and guide the decision- making process (Humphry, 2019). By incorporating data-driven decision-making, the system can ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively and that the needs of the people in need (the homeless) are being met in the best possible way. Program evaluations are essential in incorporating data-driven decision-making in the homeless shelter assistance system, as these evaluations involve assessing the impact and effectiveness of the programs and services provided by the system. By conducting regular program evaluations, the system can gather valuable data on the outcomes of its interventions, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions on how to optimize its operations (The Homeless Hub, n.d.). Program evaluations can also help identify any gaps or deficiencies in the system, allowing for timely adjustments and improvements. Other types of data are necessary to make decisions beyond understanding program functioning, including demographic data, such as the age, gender, and socioeconomic status of the residents. This data can provide insights into the specific needs and vulnerabilities of different populations, allowing for targeted interventions and tailored support. Data on the length of stay in the shelter can also be valuable in understanding patterns and trends and in planning for future capacity needs. Furthermore, data on the outcomes of residents after leaving the shelter, such as employment rates or housing stability, can help in assessing the long-term impact of the assistance provided by the system. Another important type of data that is necessary for making informed decisions is feedback from homeless persons. This can be gathered through surveys, interviews, or focus groups and can provide valuable insights into their satisfaction levels, preferences, and suggestions for

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10 improvement. By incorporating resident feedback into decision-making processes, the system can ensure that it is truly responsive to their needs and concerns. Conclusion Homelessness is a significant issue affecting various people globally, thus a need for robust systems in place to help address it. The homeless shelter assistance system is crucial in helping address the issue of homelessness in the US. The system helps allocate resources to address the issue and brings together different players through a collaborative effort to help develop sustainable solutions. Leaders and direct service providers in the human services system should possess essential attributes like empathy, emotional strength, strategic thinking, and good communication skills which will help them serve the people in need in the system. Equitable access and proper address to specific groups of homeless persons is significant in helping pinpoint different problems faced by varied homeless persons and families.

11 References Aykanian, A., Morton, P., Trawver, K., Victorson, L., Preskitt, S., & Street, K. (2020). Library- based field placements: Meeting the diverse needs of patrons, including those experiencing homelessness. Journal of Social Work Education , 56 (sup1), S72-S80. Bass, B. L. (2019). What is leadership?. Leadership in Surgery, 1-10. Humphry, J. (2019). ‘Digital First’: homelessness and data use in an online service environment. Communication Research and Practice , 5 (2), 172-187. Kertesz SG, Austin EL, Holmes SK et al. (2016) The Health Care for Homeless Veterans Program: A Qualitative Review of Leadership's Perception of Successes and Challenges. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved 27(2A): 7-23. Kim, K., & Garcia, I. (2019). Why do homeless families exit and return the homeless shelter? Factors affecting the risk of family homelessness in Salt Lake County (Utah, United States) as a case study. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16(22), 4328. Mosley, J. E. (2021). Cross-sector collaboration to improve homeless services: Addressing capacity, innovation, and equity challenges. The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science , 693 (1), 246-263. National Alliance to END HOMELESSNESS. (2019). Federal Funding for Homelessness Programs - National Alliance to End Homelessness . National Alliance to End Homelessness. https://endhomelessness.org/ending-homelessness/policy/federal-funding- homelessness-programs/

12 National Health Care for the Homeless Council (NHCHC) (2019) Core Competencies for Homeless Services Providers. Retrieved from https://nhchc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Core-Competencies-for-Homeless- Services-Providers.pdf Qian, C. W., & Hauser, J. (2022). Perspectives of homeless service providers on their work, their clients, and the healthcare system. Plos one, 17(5), e0268765. Program Evaluation | The Homeless Hub . (n.d.). Www.homelesshub.ca. https://www.homelesshub.ca/solutions/program-evaluation Switzer, K., & Rakos, R. F. (2022). A Behavioral Community Psychology Framework for Analyzing Housing Stability for Homeless Families: Modifying the Rapid Re-Housing Metacontingency. Behavior and Social Issues, 31(1), 272-296. O’Regan, K. M., Ellen, I. G., & House, S. (2021). How to address homelessness: Reflections from research. The Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science , 693 (1), 322-332. Urada, L. A., Nicholls, M. J., & Faille, S. R. (2022). Homelessness at the San Diego Central Library: assessing the potential role of social workers. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(14), 8449. Wusinich, C., Bond, L., Nathanson, A., & Padgett, D. K. (2019). “If you’re gonna help me, help me”: Barriers to housing among unsheltered homeless adults. Evaluation and Program Planning, 76, 101673. Wyatt, H. (2022). An Exploration of Architectural Solutions to the Marginalization of the Homeless (Doctoral dissertation, University of Oregon).

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