In honor of Black History Month, we’re featuring some of the Black leaders of harm reduction here at Prevention Point Philadelphia (PPP). Monique Joosse is the Lead Case Manager at Prevention Point’s emergency shelter Beacon House, and will soon transition to a new role as Housing Coordinator.
Originally from Nashville, Monique says her knowledge of harm reduction was limited before coming to PPP three years ago. “It was a new environment for me,” she says. “I love working with the unhoused population. Housing people is my passion. Being here has allowed me to challenge my own biases and find new ways to advocate for people in ways that I didn’t think about before.”
Working with people who have substance use disorder is a personal calling for Monique. “I remember helping my mom through her sobriety, and the support that I gave her because nobody else would give her that,” she recalls. “This is what keeps me going—helping people understand that they are worthy of having the things that they dream of. People who are struggling deserve a supportive person in their corner who lets them know that each step you take is progress... Celebrating small wins is important.”
In their capacity as case managers, Monique and her teammates coordinate wraparound social and medical services for the over 60 residents of Beacon House, including housing assessments, assistance with obtaining ID documents, behavioral health treatment, primary care, and wound care. Monique’s colleagues describe her as dedicated, knowledgeable, kind, committed, and hardworking.
“Prevention Point is here to support you to gain stability in your life,” Monique says. “We’re here to connect you to resources. We’re here to advocate for you. We’re in your corner fighting for you.”