Monique Bryant is the Director of System Outcomes at HOPE Connections and the Data Lead for her Built for Zero team of Northwest Louisiana. Her organization, based in Shreveport, serves as the Continuum of Care (CoC) in the Northwest Louisiana Region, facilitating collaboration among local agencies to provide essential services for individuals experiencing homelessness.
In her role, Bryant oversees the regulatory aspects of the HMIS system, conducts user training, and manages local and federal reporting. She also establishes goals for continuous improvement, monitors deliverables, and ensures compliance with HMIS privacy and confidentiality policies as mandated by HUD. Bryant has been with HOPE Connections for two years, but has partnered with the organization for about 12 years.
“I am a data nerd, so ensuring quality data is paramount for me,” Bryant explained. “I feel like the closer we get to entering quality data in our region, the better picture we have of where we need to focus our efforts to end homelessness.”
How is your community working to make your homeless response system more racially equitable?
In our nation, there’s a noticeable momentum behind the racial equity movement, prompting a critical examination of our policies and practices. Within our CoC, we’re actively addressing racial equity by intentionally diversifying our board to better reflect the demographics of the community we serve.
Recently, discussions have emerged about initiating dialogue with a local agency that offers a program designed to facilitate communication and foster mutual understanding, aiming to alleviate racial tensions and conflicts. Our board is considering implementing this program and extending it to agencies throughout our region. These conversations signify a proactive step toward promoting racial equity, and we’re eagerly anticipating the opportunity to commence this vital work.
Can you share a specific insight you’ve gained in your journey that has shaped your approach to solving homelessness and promoting racial equity?
“Are we genuinely committed to ensuring that ALL individuals entering our systems are afforded a fair and equal opportunity for housing? Moreover, are ALL people able to access our systems in the first place? “
Monique Bryant
In my journey, I’ve gained a profound insight from our current CoC director: “The only thing that solves homelessness is housing.” Reflecting on this, I’ve added a crucial word: “all.”
It’s imperative for communities to introspect and pose the necessary questions. Are we genuinely committed to ensuring that all individuals entering our systems are afforded a fair and equal opportunity for housing? Moreover, are all people able to access our systems in the first place?
Through data analysis, I’ve come to understand that perception and reality can diverge significantly. While we may feel we’re on track, concrete data is essential to substantiate this belief. As I’ve learned, data isn’t just a part of the picture; it is the picture, offering invaluable insights into the effectiveness and inclusivity of our efforts.
How do you ensure a diverse and empowered team within your organization?
We recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and success. We employ several strategies including seeking out candidates from diverse backgrounds to ensure our team reflects the rich tapestry of our community. Our agency provides networking opportunities designed to nurture leadership and offer mentorship and support. We create a supportive environment where all voices are valued and heard, fostering a culture of collaboration and respect.
What is your vision for the future of homeless response systems, particularly in terms of racial equity?
“Seeing the smiles on the faces of those we’ve helped find stable housing fuels my commitment to this cause. This recognition is not just a pat on the back; it’s a reminder that our hard work and dedication are making a real difference.“
monique bryant
Without a doubt, your question resonates deeply with our agency’s mission, which is to establish a community where no individual experiences street homelessness. My vision encompasses implementing robust systems that reduce shelter stays by at least 50%, ultimately eradicating street homelessness entirely. Furthermore, our commitment extends to ensuring that once individuals are housed, it’s a permanent solution, preventing any recurrence of homelessness.
Initiatives like Built for Zero have been instrumental in transforming our approach. Through this program, we’re gaining unprecedented insights into our systems, paving the way for remarkable progress. I’m incredibly enthusiastic about the transformative impact we can achieve, both locally and beyond. Built for Zero’s relentless dedication to fostering collaboration and engagement among community stakeholders is truly commendable.
Their approach ignites curiosity within the teams they support, pushing boundaries and encouraging innovative thinking. Embracing this movement and cultivating curiosity within the broader community will undoubtedly propel us toward our shared goal.
Anything else you would like to share?
I am immensely proud to be an active member of our community, especially as we work diligently toward ending chronic homelessness through initiatives like Built for Zero. Every step we take brings us closer to our goal, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see the tangible impact of our collective efforts.
Personally, seeing the smiles on the faces of those we’ve helped find stable housing fuels my commitment to this cause. This recognition is not just a pat on the back; it’s a reminder that our hard work and dedication are making a real difference. I am truly grateful to be part of such a socially conscious and action-driven community.
