Leadership during Challenging Times

Starting her tenure as the CEO of Haven for Hope in 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Kim Jefferies faced numerous obstacles. After three years at the forefront of this nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding San Antonio’s homeless population, she is set to begin a new chapter leading a similar nonprofit in Las Vegas.

Reflections on Tenure and Collaborations

In a recent discussion on the “bigcitysmalltown” podcast with host Robert Rivard, Jefferies shared insights into her experiences at Haven for Hope. One of her primary goals upon assuming the CEO role was to strengthen the organization’s partnerships.

“Haven is always going to be the biggest part of the response system just because of the scale,” Jefferies acknowledged. She emphasized the importance of elevating partner organizations since no single entity can tackle homelessness independently. With over 80 partners offering diverse services, the success of these collaborations is integral to Haven’s missions.

Innovative Partner Programs

Highlighting some impactful collaborations, Jefferies mentioned SAMMinistries, which focuses on providing permanent housing to chronically homeless individuals, coupled with critical support services for stability. She also cited Christian Assistance Ministry and Corazon Ministries, noting their innovative approaches to addressing substance abuse and mental health issues by delivering psychiatric support directly to individuals in need.

Changing Perceptions of Homelessness

Jefferies addressed the contrasting perceptions of homelessness in San Antonio compared to its actual prevalence. Despite a smaller homeless population relative to other cities, public concern remains high. “When you walk on the campus, there’s this underlying spirit of gratitude and joy and lightheartedness that you would not expect,” she remarked. Jefferies believes the organization has not effectively communicated the positive transformations occurring within its campus.

Future Outlook

Equipped with valuable experiences and knowledge from her time at Haven for Hope, Jefferies is poised to tackle the challenges ahead in Las Vegas. She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts in addressing homelessness, stating, “When we all work in tandem, we have the ability to serve people and transform their lives in a way that we couldn’t imagine doing ourselves.”