News Summary
The Department of Health and Human Services has welcomed Denisa Burt as its new Community Resource and Homeless Prevention Coordinator. Starting on December 23, 2024, Burt brings valuable experience in community outreach and resource facilitation. Her role focuses on assisting individuals under 60 who are experiencing homelessness or at risk, aiming to improve access to vital services such as housing, food, and healthcare. With a commitment to empowering vulnerable populations, Burt’s appointment is expected to usher in new initiatives to address housing instability.
Exciting News for Community Support!
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has made a fantastic addition to its team with the appointment of Denisa Burt as the new Community Resource and Homeless Prevention Coordinator. She kicked off her journey in this role on December 23, 2024, and the community is buzzing with excitement!
Who is Denisa Burt?
Burt comes to the HHS with a shiny resume and a wealth of experience, making her the perfect fit for this important position. Prior to joining HHS, she worked as a developmental specialist at Criterion Child Enrichment, where she honed her skills in conducting needs assessments and building relationships with community providers and clients. Her hands-on experience in identifying individuals and families in need means she’s uniquely qualified to tackle the challenges of homelessness head-on.
A Focus on Those in Need
In her new role, Burt will center her efforts on residents under the age of 60 who are either experiencing homelessness or are at serious risk of falling into it. Her aim is to facilitate access to crucial resources like housing, food, and healthcare, helping to create a safety net for those who need it the most. This focus reflects a genuine commitment to uplifting vulnerable populations, bringing hope and support to many who may feel like they have nowhere to turn.
The Role Has Changed Hands
Denisa takes over the position from Libby Lazar, who held the role from September 2022 until December 2024. This shift brings new energy and fresh ideas, ensuring that the approach to tackling homelessness remains dynamic and responsive to the community’s needs. Burt’s annual salary for this important position is set at $67,497, reflecting the significant responsibilities she will undertake.
Skills and Passion Galore!
The enthusiasm for Burt’s appointment is palpable within the HHS. The Director of HHS, Colleen Leger, has commended Burt’s remarkable energy and expertise, anticipating great things from her skills in case management and community outreach. Such recognition shows the confidence that the HHS leadership has in her abilities to make a real difference.
Denisa Burt’s passion for community service is evident in her previous roles. Before her time at Criterion, she served as an Inclusion Specialist at the Inclusion Initiative in Cambridge, where she focused on empowering children with disabilities. Her educational background also supports her mission – she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Children, Youth, and Family Studies with dual minors in psychology and communications and media analysis from Lesley University.
A Bright Future Ahead
The future looks bright not only for Denisa but also for the community she serves. With her arrival, there’s a feeling of optimism that new programs and initiatives will emerge, helping to bridge the gap for those facing housing instability. Burt’s vision aligns beautifully with the HHS’s mission to build a strong community network where everyone can thrive.
As she settles into her role, residents are hopeful that her fresh perspective and dedication will lead to innovative solutions for pressing challenges. Here’s to a new chapter in community support – with Denisa Burt at the helm, it seems like great things are on the horizon!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Denisa Burt Takes Charge as Community Resource Coordinator
Additional Resources
- Your Arlington: Denisa Burt Takes Charge
- Patch: New Community Resource Leader
- ARLnow: Behavioral Health Crisis Team
- Wikipedia: Homelessness
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Homelessness
