Heroes Of The Homeless Crisis: How Kimberly Moore Of The Shannon West Homeless Youth Center Is Helping To Support Some Of The Most Vulnerable People In Our Communities
Empower the People You Serve: Early on, I didn’t fully grasp the importance of letting the individuals I serve take the lead in decisions about their own lives. Over time, I learned that they are experts in their own experiences and know what’s best for them, even if our perspectives differ. One memorable example involved a man who, against my initial advice, pursued a unique career path that turned out to be the perfect fit for him. His success reinforced the value of trusting their judgment.
As a part of our series about “Heroes Of The Homeless Crisis” I had the pleasure of interviewing Kimberly Moore.
Kimberly Moore boasts an impressive two-decade career dedicated to assisting individuals battling substance use disorders, with a remarkable 15-year specialization in homeless youth support. Since 2017, as Director of the Shannon West Homeless Youth Center, Kim leads valiant efforts to aid the community’s most underserved youth, showcasing unparalleled expertise in shelter management, solution-focused techniques, grant management, and trauma-informed care. Beyond her pivotal role, Kim actively engages in community initiatives, demonstrating unwavering dedication to making a positive impact.
Thank you so much for joining us! Our readers would love to ‘get to know you’ a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your personal background, and how you grew up?
I grew up in a challenging environment with my mother, stepfather and younger brother. Unfortunately, both my mother and stepfather struggled with addiction, which created a lot of instability and chaos in our household. My childhood was marked by traumatic experiences, including various forms of abuse, both physical and emotional.
My grandparents played a crucial role in my life during this time, as they were the only stable and supportive adults I had. However, when they moved to Las Vegas when I was around nine years old, it was a tough transition for me because they had been my anchor and source of normalcy.
Around the age of 12, my family and I moved to Las Vegas to be with my grandparents. Growing up I never learned healthy coping skills and our family rarely discussed our problems. This lack of communication and support led me down the path of addiction as a way to cope with the ongoing trauma throughout my teenage years.
When I was about 15, my stepfather was arrested for the abuse he had subjected me to. At that point, I had become accustomed to the abuse, and it pushed me even deeper into addiction. I was eventually removed from my home due to the arrest and entered a series of group homes, experiencing periods of homelessness.
After completing a substance abuse treatment program, my grandmother graciously took me back into her home. However, I left when I turned 18, thinking I was equipped to navigate adulthood on my own. Unfortunately, I made several poor choices and faced episodes of homelessness during that time.
It wasn’t until I turned 25 that I realized I needed to make a change in my life. I was tired of the path I was on, so I decided to seek treatment for my substance abuse issues and the trauma I had endured. Since February 2020, I’ve been actively engaged in my recovery journey and haven’t looked back.
Is there a particular story or incident that inspired you to get involved in your work helping people who are homeless?
An inspiring turning point in my career occurred when I was initially focused on assisting young females, aged 12 to 17, who were grappling with substance use disorders. During that time, the organization I was working for secured a grant to support pregnant and parenting homeless youth aged 18 to 21. I was entrusted with the role of program supervisor for this initiative, and it was in this capacity that I discovered a profound sense of purpose in working with individuals experiencing homelessness. This newfound passion ultimately led me to join the Help of Southern Nevada team, where I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of homeless youth at the Shannon West Homeless Youth Center.
Homelessness has been a problem for a long time in the United States. But it seems that it has gotten a lot worse over the past five years, particularly in the large cities, such as Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and San Francisco. Can you explain to our readers what brought us to this place? Where did this crisis come from?
Homelessness in the United States has grown increasingly severe, particularly in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and San Francisco over the past five years. This crisis is not attributable to a single cause but rather results from a complex interplay of factors. Mental health issues, substance abuse, medical conditions, intellectual disabilities, youth and elderly homelessness, LGBTQ+ individuals, survivors of domestic violence, and a severe shortage of affordable housing all contribute to this problem.
Fundamentally, homelessness reflects a systemic issue — a lack of equitable access to essential resources for the most vulnerable members of society. Homeless individuals are resourceful and resilient, but they often find themselves caught in a cycle of homelessness due to systemic barriers. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing immediate support, mental health care reform, addiction treatment, affordable housing initiatives, and social programs to uplift those experiencing homelessness. By working collectively and with empathy, we can strive to end this complex crisis and provide a path to self-sufficiency for those in need.
A question that many people who are not familiar with the intricacies of this problem ask is, “Why don’t homeless people just move to a city that has cheaper housing?” How do you answer this question?
Many people who may not fully grasp the complexities of homelessness often wonder, “Why don’t homeless individuals simply relocate to cities with more affordable housing?” In response, it’s crucial to understand that the challenge of housing affordability extends far beyond a single city or state; it’s a pervasive issue affecting communities nationwide. The excessive cost of living and the inadequacy of minimum-wage jobs to sustain even a single person are challenges that our youth encounter regularly. Many of them face barriers to education, which limits their ability to secure well-paying jobs.
Consequently, we’ve witnessed a growing number of individuals seeking shelter due to exorbitant rents and the escalating expenses associated with everyday life in our communities. Addressing homelessness requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond geographic relocation and necessitates systemic changes to make housing more affordable and attainable for everyone.
If someone passes a homeless person on the street, what is the best way to help them?
When encountering a homeless person on the street, the most effective way to assist them is through kindness and compassion. It’s important to remember that every individual living on the street is someone’s loved one and they often face exploitation or ridicule online. A simple act of kindness, such as offering a kind word or a smile, can have a significant impact. Many homeless individuals are not in their situation by choice; they are grappling with various challenges and hardships. To provide meaningful help, consider connecting them with local service providers and support networks available in the community. This gesture can be a vital step toward addressing their needs and assisting them on their journey out of homelessness.
What is the best way to respond if a homeless person asks for money for rent or gas?
When a homeless person asks for money, especially for rent or gas, the most effective response is to refer them to organizations and service providers that specialize in addressing homelessness. Providing money directly, while well-intentioned, often only offers a short-term solution to a long-term problem. These service providers have the expertise and resources to help individuals break the cycle of homelessness, offering them a more sustainable path to stability and self-sufficiency.
Can you describe to our readers how your work is making an impact battling this crisis?
The Shannon West Homeless Youth Center is teaching our youth skills that they can use throughout their lifetime. It’s teaching them no matter what your situation is there’s hope you can create a positive life for yourself.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the homeless crisis, and the homeless community? Also how has it affected your ability to help people?
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on both the homeless crisis and the homeless community. It presented unique challenges, particularly for homeless youth in our community who faced difficulties in seeking employment during the shutdown. Confusion about housing moratoriums led some youth to leave their housing and seek shelter. Despite these challenges, the Shannon West Homeless Youth Center remained steadfast in serving our homeless youth without any service interruptions. The leadership team had to adapt creatively to address unprecedented issues brought about by the pandemic. This experience has imparted valuable life lessons and reshaped the way we deliver services to our youth, underscoring the importance of flexibility and resilience in the face of adversity.
Can you share something about your work that makes you most proud? Is there a particular story or incident that you found most uplifting?
The work we undertake at the Shannon West Homeless Youth Center is undeniably challenging. Many of our youth have faced traumatic experiences and they often lack the essential coping, social and life skills required to integrate into society successfully. There are moments when assisting them can be quite challenging. However, what truly fills me with pride and motivation is the success stories we encounter along the way. We make it a point to celebrate every success, regardless of its scale, because every step forward, no matter how small, represents a moment of triumph and progress for these young individuals. It’s these moments that continue to drive my dedication to this work.
Without sharing real names, can you share a story with our readers about a particular individual who was impacted or helped by your work?
I’d like to share a story about an individual we’ll call Andrew. Andrew’s journey began when he left home at the age of 16, embarking on years of traveling across the country. Eventually, he found refuge in an underground tunnel in Las Vegas, where he sought the sense of belonging, he had been longing for. However, his life had taken a dark turn as he had become entangled in addiction, particularly as an IV drug user.
Andrew’s path to recovery started when HELP of Southern Nevada’s Homeless Response Team engaged with him multiple times until he finally agreed to seek assistance at the Shannon West Homeless Youth Center. Here, he received invaluable substance-abuse counseling and acquired essential life skills. I had the privilege of being his case manager during this transformative journey.
Andrew’s determination was remarkable. He enrolled in school and earned his high school diploma, subsequently advancing to college. As a diligent student, he achieved straight A’s and decided to redirect his career path, enrolling in an aviation college. Concurrently, he secured employment at a local casino and with the support of his partner, whom he met at the center, they found housing within the community. He persevered through aviation school, and upon graduation, made the bold decision to relocate to Florida, a significant step taken nearly a decade ago.
Over the years, Andrew has periodically sent me photos of him working on airplanes, illustrating his remarkable success. His partner has become a licensed social worker in Florida, and both are thriving. Reflecting on stories like Andrew’s reminds me of the meaningful impact we can have in the lives of young individuals facing adversity. These are the stories that inspire me, bring a smile to my face, and reinforce my sense of purpose in this work.
Can you share three things that the community and society can do to help you address the root of this crisis? Can you give some examples?
Addressing the root of the homelessness crisis requires a concerted effort from the community and society as a whole. Here are three critical steps that can make a substantial difference:
Expand Affordable Housing: One of the most pressing needs is the availability of affordable housing within our community. We must encourage and engage landlords who are willing to work with individuals experiencing homelessness, offering them a chance to secure stable housing. Advocacy for policies and initiatives that promote affordable housing is essential. For instance, incentivizing property owners to allocate a portion of their housing units for affordable rentals or supporting programs that provide financial assistance to those struggling with housing costs.
Diverse Housing Options: In Nevada, there’s a pressing need for a diverse range of housing options tailored to the specific needs of our most vulnerable residents. This includes specialized housing for individuals dealing with mental health issues. Some homeless individuals require a different approach, as homelessness should ideally be a rare, one-time and brief occurrence. For those with mental health challenges, it’s crucial to provide supportive services within a safe and secure environment on a full-time basis. This may entail developing specialized facilities and programs aimed at addressing mental health needs outside the traditional homeless system.
Community Support and Mentorship: To prevent homeless youth from becoming chronically homeless adults, we need a network of employers, mentors and community members willing to extend a helping hand. Homeless youth often lack the support they need during this critical phase in their lives. Initiatives like mentorship programs, job training and community outreach can be instrumental in providing the guidance and opportunities necessary for homeless youth to break the cycle of homelessness and build a stable future.
By focusing on these key areas, we can work together as a community to tackle the root causes of homelessness and create a more compassionate and inclusive society for all.
If you had the power to influence legislation, which three laws would you like to see introduced that might help you in your work?
If I possessed the power to shape legislation, there are three critical laws I would advocate for to enhance the landscape of my work:
1. **Shared Living Housing for Mental Health Support:** I propose the enactment of legislation in Nevada that establishes shared living housing options specifically tailored to individuals dealing with Mental Health concerns. These facilities should be adequately staffed with professionals who can provide the necessary support and resources for these individuals to attain self-sufficiency. To encourage private participation in this endeavor, the program should offer incentives to individuals who are willing to provide reduced rates or cover the rent until the residents can secure a source of income.
2. **LGBTQ+ housing options** Include It’s imperative to highlight that in the United States, 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ+, a significantly higher percentage compared to the general youth population (7%). Nevada currently lacks dedicated LGBTQ+ housing options for these vulnerable youth, making it even more crucial to address this issue. Existing shelters can often become hostile environments for LGBTQ+ youth, hindering their self-discovery and safety. Specialized supportive services are essential for LGBTQ+ youth to empower them to reach their full potential and pursue their aspirations.
2. **Incentivizing Affordable Housing Construction:**Another crucial piece of legislation would aim to incentivize new construction projects to focus on creating affordable housing options for our most vulnerable community members. The housing crisis affects many individuals at risk of homelessness, and creating affordable housing is a pivotal step in mitigating this crisis. By offering incentives to developers and builders, we can stimulate the construction of affordable housing units, ensuring that those most in need have access to safe and stable housing.
These three proposed laws have the potential to significantly improve the lives of individuals dealing with mental health challenges, LGBTQ+ youth, and those at risk of homelessness in Nevada. They reflect a commitment to providing essential support, protection, and opportunities to our community’s most vulnerable members.
I know that this is not easy work. What keeps you going?
What fuels my dedication to this challenging work are the success stories that continue to inspire me. Having served at Help of Southern Nevada’s Shannon West Homeless Youth Center for over 12 years, seeing former clients return, often with their partners and children is incredibly rewarding. Reconnecting with them, hearing about their accomplishments and witnessing the positive transformations in their lives invigorate my passion. These reunions serve as a powerful reminder of the impact we can make and they provide the strength and motivation to persist in the fight for our homeless youth.
Do you have hope that one day this great social challenge can be solved completely?
Yes, I am hopeful that one day we can fully resolve the significant social challenge of homelessness. Achieving this goal will demand a concerted effort involving community partners, government officials, community leaders and the entire community. Compassion and a deeper understanding of homelessness are essential. We must be prepared to institute crucial changes in our systems. It is vital for our society to view people experiencing homelessness as someone’s loved ones rather than a burden. They are individuals with unique life experiences who require assistance and support.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why.
1. Reciprocal Growth: I wish someone had told me that the individuals I serve would contribute significantly to my personal growth and development. Their stories and experiences have a profound impact on my life, just as I aim to make a difference in theirs. I vividly remember a young woman I worked with who had faced numerous challenges. Through our interactions, she taught me resilience and the power of hope. Her determination to overcome obstacles inspired me and reaffirmed the importance of my role.
2. Empower the People You Serve: Early on, I didn’t fully grasp the importance of letting the individuals I serve take the lead in decisions about their own lives. Over time, I learned that they are experts in their own experiences and know what’s best for them, even if our perspectives differ. One memorable example involved a man who, against my initial advice, pursued a unique career path that turned out to be the perfect fit for him. His success reinforced the value of trusting their judgment.
3. Ask Questions and Learn: I wish I had known that it’s perfectly acceptable to ask the individuals I’m assisting about their preferences and experiences. As a service provider, I don’t possess all the answers, and it’s essential to remain open to learning from those I serve. There was a moment when a young person shared their cultural traditions and how it influenced their preferences for certain services. This taught me the significance of cultural competence and the importance of tailoring support to individual needs.
4. Self-Care Matters: Early in my career, I neglected to address my own issues before extending help to others. I soon realized that self-care is fundamental. Burnout became a real concern until I prioritized my well-being. A poignant lesson came when a colleague emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which ultimately allowed me to be a more effective and resilient advocate for the individuals I serve.
5. Balancing Efforts: Lastly, I’ve come to understand that it’s not productive to work harder than the individual I’m trying to assist. While it’s crucial to offer support, their commitment and effort are equally vital. A memorable experience involved a young person who was struggling to find employment. We worked together on job applications but it was when they took the initiative to attend job fairs and network that they finally secured a position. This taught me the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility in the journey towards self-sufficiency.
You are a person of enormous influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I could inspire a movement that would bring about the most good for the greatest number of people, it would revolve around promoting kindness and understanding in our society. Often, we tend to reject or oppose things we don’t fully understand or can’t personally relate to. It’s crucial to recognize that just because someone chooses to live their life differently doesn’t make it wrong.
One pressing issue we face is how our society sometimes enforces laws that inadvertently create additional obstacles for individuals experiencing homelessness. For instance, many homeless individuals are convicted of offenses often referred to as “homeless crimes,” such as trespassing because they seek a safe and warm place to sleep or shoplifting because they are hungry. These legal actions perpetuate the cycle of homelessness rather than addressing its root causes.
To truly make a positive impact, we need to shift our perspective and approach. We should view housing as a fundamental human right and ensure that no one who wants to escape homelessness is left on the street. By fostering a culture of empathy, acceptance and advocacy for housing as a human right, we can create a society where everyone has the opportunity to live a dignified life.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
One of my favorite life lesson quotes is, “If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” This quote encapsulates the essence of what we do as service providers. We empower individuals experiencing homelessness with the skills they need to become self-sufficient and thrive independently.
Additionally, another life lesson that has resonated with me is the belief that, “No matter where you began or what happened along the way, you have the power to get where you’re supposed to be.” This perspective has been relevant in my own life journey, reminding me that despite challenges and setbacks, it’s always possible to progress towards one’s goals and fulfill one’s potential.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
If given the opportunity, I would love to have lunch with Governor Joe Lombardo of Nevada. My reason for this choice is practical and focused on addressing pressing issues in our state. I would use this opportunity to discuss the development of a comprehensive and collaborative housing system. It’s essential to establish a system where individuals with mental health challenges have access to supportive services integrated with long-term housing solutions. Additionally, I would emphasize the need to prioritize individuals with developmental disabilities who are experiencing homelessness. I believe that such a meeting could provide a platform to explore creative solutions to tackle our housing crisis in Nevada.
How can our readers follow you online?
For more information, call HELP of Southern Nevada at 702.369.4357 or visit www.helpsonv.org. Follow HELP of Southern Nevada on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
This was very meaningful, thank you so much!
Heroes Of The Homeless Crisis: How Kimberly Moore Of The Shannon West Homeless Youth Center Is… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.