Welcome back to Episode 29 of The Young People to the Front Podcast! In this lively and insightful conversation, we are joined by Monae Dale, a native Angeleno and social worker, to discuss her experience working in social services, especially with homeless youth in Los Angeles. 

Monae brings her unique perspective as a program officer at the California Community Foundation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her journey from providing direct services as a clinician to working in macro-level advocacy. We dive into the mental health challenges of working with unhoused youth, the systemic issues in homelessness services, and how important community and peer-based models are in supporting vulnerable populations. 

This episode is a candid reflection on the emotional and personal toll of social work, and Monae offers practical advice on self-care, burnout prevention, and the importance of staying grounded in this critical field. Whether you're interested in youth development, mental health, or community work, this episode is full of valuable insights.

Topics Discussed in the Episode:

• Transitioning from direct social work to macro-level advocacy
• The mental health challenges and burnout faced by social workers
• The role of community in addressing homelessness and supporting youth
• The importance of peer-based support and lived experience in mental health services
• Systemic barriers to housing, including working with landlords and the housing process

Connect with Monae:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/monae-dale-061355130/