Meet Nichole Umbarger!

Nichole Umbarger is a program manager for Metropolitan Homelessness Project.  Nichole has been with MHP since January 2011.  She manages Community Voice Mail, a program that gives anyone in need a free, personal voicemail.  This service allows people in need to access opportunities in employment, housing, case management, health care and communicate with family members.  She also is MHP’s Exit Planner, helping those who reside in MHP’s emergency shelter find resources and housing.

Why did you choose to work in the social services field?

When I was in college I did an internship at a detox center & I felt a strong connection working with people who wanted help.

Why did you choose to work with people experiencing homelessness?

I didn’t really choose it, it chose me. I found people experiencing homelessness really just need someone who listens and wants to take part in their life by guiding them to resources that are available to them.

When did you know you wanted to do this work?

The first week I started I was hooked.  I enjoy being around people who know what it takes to survive.

What inspires you about your work?

The different people I meet every day. I know that my days will never be the same because of the people.

What is Community Voice Mail and why is it a unique program?

Community Voice Mail is a private local phone number. That is a reliable way to receive private messages, and keep in contact with the community.  By allowing individuals to use community voice mail for FREE, people can use it on a job application, or get the good news about housing and it allows them to become a part of society again without the stereotypes of being without a phone.

What impact does your non-profit have in the community?

Metropolitan Homelessness Project provides emergency shelter to 74 men experiencing homelessness. By allowing men to stay at the shelter for 30 days they have access to jobs & housing. By allowing individuals to know they have a safe place to sleep, they are able to focus on getting a job and finding housing. MHP is also the lead agency behind Albuquerque Heading Home, which is a program where the most 75 vulnerable individuals experiencing homelessness are housed. By having these programs MHP is able to provide services to individuals who are just down on their luck, or who are chronically homeless.

What is your favorite part of our community?

My favorite part about our community is how close the social services work together. It is nice to see everyone working towards the same goal.

 What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? 

I really enjoy tea parties with my friends.

Please share a memorable story that sticks out in your mind about your time with MHP.

I don’t think it is one time that is memorable about MHP; it is more the people that are memorable. It is an honor to be able to see residents when they first get here, and watch them grow. See them get a job, get a place, buy a car. Then see them around town and they tell they are married now, doing great. Then they tell you the simplest word that mean the world to anyone who has helped someone “Thank you.” That is the most memorable things about MHP watching people changes their lives.