Bridging the Gap to Employment for Dee's Place Attendees

For this feature, we sat down with Jibreel Street, Recovery Advocate in the Mayor's Office of Economic Development.

Q1: Can you describe your role and time here at Dee’s Place?

My name is Jibreel Street, I am a Recovery Advocate for the Mayor's Office of Economic Development. Workforce Development Associate. In my capacity, I assist individuals in active recovery with getting back into the workforce.

My time here has been amazing, most of the clients I have, I’ve gained through Dee’s Place. I meet 2-3 new clients, if not more, each week. When I came here in April I may have had 3 or 4 clients. Now I have over 120.  Everybody greeted me warmly and showed me love from the outset. They’re always there to help and they know what I do and bring people to me all the time.

Q2: What draws you to this work?

I believe that iron sharpens iron. That being one who is strong can assist others. Helping others helps me stay strong. I’m in active recovery so, being able to model what active recovery looks like and wholeheartedly knowing what the struggle of addiction is, is a blessing. I know how challenging it can be, reintegrating into the workplace. Seeing all the different barriers that we face, not just from society, but also from within ourselves. Being able to sit down and talk to clients to really let them know that I understand that I’ve been there, and I want to help them get to where they want to go. Getting them in a position where their self-esteem is renewed and that they have the capability to do well in the workforce.

Q3: What makes Dee’s Place special?

Dee’s Place is a family. I see the same faces every time I’m here. There’s consistency and dedication in the people who come here. It’s just a good place to be and I enjoy coming here every time. I’m grateful to be here and I want to thank HEBCAC and Dee’s Place for giving me the privilege to serve. It’s a blessing.