Unmeasurable Successes

I am not a mathematician, but I do really enjoy solutions. I like tangible figures—there is something very comforting and reassuring about knowing the beginning, middle, and end of a process. Y = mx + b is seared into my brain because there is comfort in knowing the “y”.

At times, for a person that enjoys the tangible parts of life, it can be very difficult to be working in this field. The measurements of “success” do not always line up to the realities of the systems we face, or the challenges those we work with encounter. Are we not a success as a team if a particular individual does not move into independent housing? Have we failed if an individual we work with does not go to their appointment to go into treatment? How do we reconcile the expectations of “success”—the outcomes we must measure as an organization—with the understanding that social services isn’t math? We can’t always find the “y”.

I try to instill on the staff I supervise, that the successes can come in the transitions towards recovery or independent living; but there is also success in being with and walking a community through a shared trauma. There is success in helping a client to see a doctor for the first time in years, even if they only get one prescription and don’t go back. There is success in showing a client they are capable of ending their substance use, even if it’s for 2 weeks. And there is success in building relationships to the point that a client will allow you to sit with them in their darkest times. There is value in showing clients, even if you don’t reach the end of your goal, you are capable, you are worthy, and you have the tools you need.

These successes will not show up in our outcomes—they are not the things that will increase funding or shift the paradigms of this field. But recovery is a destination, and a journey; every single meaningful journey home begins with one brave step. At Emma Norton Residence, it is important we celebrate that step, and every step that follows.

I find value in celebrating the women who spent 3 or more years at Emma Norton Residence, who have finally been able to transition into their own affordable housing in partnership with our Scattered Site Program staff. I often get pictures of their pets, their furniture, and the new lives they’ve built. I also find value in appreciating the women who struggled in this space, for one reason or another, and possibly didn’t leave on the best of terms. And those who call to tell me they appreciate our presence, our work, and giving them a chance for success. And those who call to ask for a resource, a word of advice, or just an update on how I am doing. I am not a mathematician, but I don’t always need a solution. Sometimes just a connection and a chance will do.

Mbemba Camara

Program Manager – Emma Norton Residence