We spoke with Curtis Taitt, a Shelter Support Team Member at Starbright Family Residence, about his day-to-day responsibilities, what brought him to this work, and what inspires him to keep going.
HSU: Can you share a bit about your background and how you became involved in working at your organization?
CT: Growing up in the South Bronx and East Harlem, there was no way to escape the cultural and environmental influences of the urban environment. Somehow, in someway, everyone who lived there would be touched by the culture. It would be evident in most, but not as much in others. But all would be impacted. So, after graduating computer repair trade, it was difficult to find work in that field at that point and time in the early 1990’s. So, I interviewed for a position working in a scatter site facility assisting the transitioning of the homeless with mental health conditions into residential facilities throughout NYC. So, I have a long history of working in mental health and substance abuse since 1994.
What drew you to work in the shelter environment, and how would you describe your experience so far?
Part of my personality is that of a helper which and when I tripped into this field, I found that one of my purposes was to help those in need and then it eventually became my purpose. Since 1994, things have changed tremendously and become more challenging, but the passion and purpose supersede all challenges, and it’s always the subtle reminders that fill the spirit to continue the work.
Have you faced any particular challenges while working here, and how have you overcome them?
Fentanyl has had a tremendous impact and created challenges unlike anything I’ve seen in my 31 years in this industry. I just keep hoping and continue to influence change as best I can, using the skills I’ve gained from being in this work for so long.
What does a typical day look like for you at the shelter?
Basically, like most workplaces, it’s routine: setting appointments, addressing crises, supporting the social services staff, and a lot of times just being there for the clients.
Are there specific tasks or roles within your position that you feel particularly passionate about or find most rewarding?
The most fulfilling part of the job is the interaction during individual counseling sessions, and the ups and downs to that process. The real inspiration is when it finally clicks and you can see it in their eyes, and then the manifestation of change right before your eyes.
How do you build rapport and trust with residents at the shelter, especially in those first few interactions?
I have always created boundaries with the client, but I never had a ‘better than’ attitude. I always let them know they are human and no different than me. I treat the clients with dignity, but I tell them the truth and most of them respect that honesty.
What is the most important thing to consider when working in the shelter?
Most of the population we serve has a trauma history, and being homeless itself is trauma-based. And a lot of the time, their situation is usually coupled with mental health and substance dependency.
Is there anything else that you’d like to share?
Thank you for this Honor.
To learn more about Curtis and Home Life Services’ work, call 718-645-8900.
Are you an HSU member and want to highlight a staff member working in shelter? Please email Pepper Pavlish at ppavlish@hsunited.org
