K’Quiana Griffin-Knowling – Project Manager HOPWA
How has the G.R.A.C.E. Network enhanced your work and service delivery?
“The G.R.A.C.E. Network has proven to be a viable asset as it has greatly enhanced my intake, assessment and case management skills in relation to my service delivery tasks. The G.R.A.C.E. Network allows a holistic approach for our consumers and addresses various needs. The Network introduces consumers to an abundance of community resources and acknowledges the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), which is a tool that measures a person’s quality of life outcomes. G.R.A.C.E. Network significantly effects consumers’ housing stability by addressing their needs beyond housing and taking into account their overall wellbeing. I sincerely appreciate the Network because it has allowed me to delve a bit deeper into consumers’ lives and identify needs that are more complex. I’m able to collaborate with the consumer to identify and navigate community resources, and create goals and action plans during our regular meetings. The G.R.A.C.E. Network addresses subjects such as housing, food, transportation, employment, family and community support, education, mental health, childcare and physical health. As a user of G.R.A.C.E. Network, I am thrilled with the services it provides and excited to learn additional community organizations are joining the network and positively affecting the lives of the consumers we serve.”
How has utilization of the G.R.A.C.E. Network helped consumers meet their needs?
“The G.R.A.C.E. Network has helped consumers identify and resolve their needs by providing referrals. I have submitted a number of referrals to Community Based Organization, such as Community Food Club, Goodwill Industries, Euzen Connect, Head Start, Hope Network, Cherry Street Health Center, Baxter Community Center and various other resources. During the past year, a consumer reported he had lost his employment and was in need of mortgage assistance, employment services and food resources. I utilized the G.R.A.C.E. Network and provided a referral to the Goodwill Industries Achieve program, which offers career counseling, job-searching skills, addresses employment-related soft skills and goal setting techniques. The consumer also requested and received a referral to the Community Food Club. The consumer has obtained and successfully maintained full-time employment within his desired field. He is also a current member of the Food Club and reports he continues to visit the organization regularly.”