People living with HIV are more than twice as likely to face homelessness and someone experiencing homelessness is at higher risk for HIV, highlighting the need for programs that reach the most marginalized members of our community. TPAN has operated a housing program since 2010 to address these challenges. Meet Joshua Brown, one of TPAN's housing technicians who works hard for his clients living with HIV to keep a roof over their heads.

 

Why are you passionate about your work at TPAN?

Housing is such an essential part of a person's safety and security, so it's really gratifying to help clients maintain their housing subsidy so that they can focus on their health, work, family, and goals. Having been a teacher for the past 12 years and now working at TPAN has been a welcome change. It is a supportive community of coworkers who are pursuing the same mission of helping our clients receive equitable access to care and resources.

How do you know you've made a difference in your work?

Working in housing and social services can be challenging as you meet people where they're at--clients, landlords, and even coworkers. I know I've made a difference when I get that "thank you" message after a client has moved into their new apartment or I receive a text that a client's electricity or gas service has been restored after they lost the ability to pay their bills. Those moments, and the success stories we share with one another in the office, remind me that I'm making a difference.

What do you like to do for fun?

As a former zookeeper and international school teacher, some of my favorite things are spending time in nature with my husband and dogs, exploring our city, and traveling to new locations (road trips are my fave!).