One of her top priorities was to address pay equity . She strongly believes that being a not-for-profit organization does not mean people should live and work in poverty . Her vision is to run programs that enable people to “ live appropriately ” and to be compensated fairly for their work .
From clinical intake to gainful employment
Bridgeways offers many support service programs to stabilize mental health and abuse issues . They work through the Everett and Marysville Municipal Courts , with support liaisons to reduce recidivism and mental health and substance issues .
They also offer housing support and employment services . According to the website www . bridgeways . org , “ Safe , stable , and affordable housing is a foundation that mental health and wellness , independence and self-sufficiency can rest on .”
Duffield shared , “ Our mission is to provide a quality of life for individuals with mental health challenges . They can take a lot of different formats .” She said for some people , severe anxiety can be a cause of unemployment . Bridgeways tries to meet people where they are , toward treating issues and enabling employment , housing , and a secure environment .
Their Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness ( PATH ) is tied to helping people move into stable living situations while addressing other issues . Duffield spoke about meeting basic needs to help get people to the point of being ready to be gainfully employed .
She shared the importance of meeting people ’ s basic needs before integrating them into employment .
She added , “ I don ’ t think we can help anyone get better with anything if they ’ re not housed .” She talked about concerns about where to sleep , being dry , warm , and safe , and how that can prevent a person from holding a job . Regarding drug and alcohol use , “ To get beyond just survival , many people self-medicate . We all seek ways to support ourselves to deal with our challenges .” She noted that having treatment , housing , and community ( family , friends , and work ) can help . Finally , “ If I can get you housed and ( you ) can get treatment , you may be able to succeed .”
APRIL | MAY 2024 ISSUE NO . 38 29