NON-PROFIT CENTRAL FLORIDA
A GUIDE TO NON-PROFITS WITH MISSIONS RELATED TO POVERTY AND HOMELESSNESS
Kirk Baston
COMMUNITY FOOD AND OUTREACH CENTER
LEAD CASE MANAGER
What is your educational background?
I have my Bachelor's in Ministry and Master's in Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University.
What are your duties as a case manager?
I try to provide services to those in need. I provide assistance with financial aid, food, and employment. I direct people's lives by helping them find resources to be self-sufficient. I provide them with the information they need to help enhance their life.
How did you get involved with this non-profit?
I began working with enrollment with the Affordable Care Act and spent a great deal of time interacting with people. I saw this place as a place where I could be of greater use.
How much writing is required?
We have people who do grants for education and food services. However, we are a referral service agency.
Do you have advice for being a successful case manager?
This work is very rewarding, strenuous and consuming. However, having a goal and doing what you can is important, but do not take it home with you. Do your best and allow God to take the rest.
How much do you enjoy being the lead case manager?
Greatly. I enjoy connecting with people and bringing hope to them so they understand that they don't have to stay where they are. They can dream to become bigger and greater.
What is your best memory within this non-profit?
This family came from New York and was struggling. They were promised a job but it didn't work out so they were living in a hotel. When I put them in an apartment, they were so thankful. Now, I am helping further with furniture. It's a blessing to know that their dream worked out.