About Us

Learn to listen and listen to learn

Early detection of substance abuse, mental health and medical support could prevent anyone from winding up living on the streets with no knowledge of their available resources. Outreach is critically important.

The Compassion of Outreach

Lamont Witherspoon, Senior Outreach Specialist, CCMT-CCHW-CCRC

My Story

Twenty 26 years ago, my journey began as a volunteer at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the Psychiatry Outreach and Moore Clinic. Within a short span, I earned recognition with the prestigious Sophie O’Connor award for volunteer service, having amassed the highest number of hours ever recorded. Simultaneously, I completed my high school diploma, marking the inception of my professional trajectory.

Soon after, I transitioned to a data entry position at Johns Hopkins University where fate intervened through an introduction to Dr. O’Toole, who was poised to assume the role of Dean of Medicine at Georgetown University. Through Dr. O’Toole, I crossed paths with Dr. Olson, a luminary in the field renowned for her groundbreaking work in the suboxone program and research studies.

For approximately five months, I served as a dedicated research assistant under Dr. Olson’s tutelage until she transitioned to a pivotal role at the hospital. Recognizing my potential, Dr. Olson extended an invitation to join her at the hospital, where I assumed the role of Psychiatry Outreach Worker.

After a year and several months of dedicated service, Dr. Olson informed me of the impending closure of the program. In response, she facilitated an opportunity for me to interview with Healthcare for the Homeless. I embraced this transition wholeheartedly and have remained committed to this organization for the past seventeen years. Continuing to make a meaningful impact at Why not be the Change, in the lives of those in need.

Reminding myself of the countless reasons not to give up and to remain focused is a practice I embrace daily. We all face challenges that require us to overcome obstacles or improve ourselves, and I’ve chosen to anchor myself to a particular story for inspiration.

This narrative fuels me with energy, motivation, and unwavering determination. It serves as a constant reminder of the gratitude I feel for the journey I’ve undertaken. Reflecting on it reinforces the realization that my circumstances didn’t have to align this way—they are a testament to resilience and the power of choice.

Over 26 Years Ago…

I broke my neck on the job…literally…

What I’ve Learned

This lesson has stayed with me, shaping my outlook on difficult times.

I’ve come to understand that challenges are not meant to break us but to build us up, to test our resilience and fortitude. Each obstacle we encounter serves as an opportunity for growth and strength.

Little did I realize then that this mindset would guide me through countless trials, leading me down a path that has defined my journey for many years.

I recall the wisdom of my grandmother’s words, “off and on.“

A gentle yet firm reminder to get up and face life’s challenges head-on!

My Journey

I went from…
Being a patient in the hospital
to
Being a volunteer at the hospital
to
An employee of the University in the same program where I was an inpatient
to
NOW…
A Senior Specialist, applying lessons from my life experiences to help guide and support others faced with difficult struggles.

At Why Not Be The Change LLC, I fulfill dual roles as a Community Supportive Services and Senior Outreach Specialist, each with distinct objectives:

To Approach

– Holistic Support: I assist clients in achieving balance and rebuilding their lives by drawing upon my knowledge of both agency resources and community-wide services.

– Motivational Interviewing: I employ Motivational Interviewing techniques to bridge the gap between clinical language and street terminology, fostering awareness and understanding among clients.

– Active Listening: Central to my approach is the practice of active listening, allowing me to gain insights and learn from clients’ experiences.

– Positive Outlook: I view challenges as opportunities for growth and development, encouraging clients to see problems as pathways to solutions.

By adhering to these principles and methodologies, I strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve and contribute to the overall success of Why not be the Change.

Falling Down is an Accident. Staying Down is Choice.

Community Wellness Goal:

– My primary objective is client retention. I support individuals engaged in care by facilitating connections with relevant resources and services. Additionally, I leverage their lived experiences to inform and improve our services.

Senior Outreach Specialist Goal:

– In this capacity, my goal is to market and promote the services offered by Why Not Be The Change LLC. I strive to deepen our understanding of the communities we serve, engaging with individuals who are not yet connected to care. By gathering insights from these interactions, I contribute to enhancing our outreach strategies and effectively reaching those who are most in need of our assistance.

women's in red and white floral long-sleeved dress standing in front of stage

Viewing Challenges as “Opportunities for Solutions” is a Perspective That We Consistently Uphold

• However, it’s important to acknowledge that many individuals we encounter may not have the privilege of adopting this mindset.

• In our outreach work, we often witness families facing dire circumstances, where their utmost priority is to remain together, no matter the cost. When we designate a situation as an “emergency” or consider the need for overbooking, it’s crucial to keep these families at the forefront of our minds.

• Their resilience and determination to preserve familial bonds serve as a poignant reminder of the profound importance of our work. By recognizing their struggles and responding with compassion and urgency, we can offer meaningful support and assistance during their time of need.