Stories |
Michael Plummer, Shift Supervisor at The Living Room, has worked at BronxWorks for four years. His friendly personality helps him establish a rapport with program participants who are experiencing homelessness.
Participants have often experienced trauma while living on the streets and may struggle to adjust to the structure that The Living Room provides. “Participants may feel defensive when they first come to The Living Room. When I get to know them, they gain respect for me and I begin to earn their trust,” Michael said. Establishing relationships is invaluable to rebuilding social skills, regaining stability, and taking the first step towards permanent housing.
Michael began his career at BronxWorks as a Safety Monitor at The Living Room before being promoted to his current role. Over the years, he has built on his skills as a member of the site’s security staff by earning health and safety certifications, such as CPR and naloxone training, that are offered at BronxWorks.
Michael drew on this invaluable training to resuscitate a participant named Jake*, who was found unresponsive after an overdose. Michael administered CPR and naloxone to Jake before an ambulance arrived. After staying in the intensive care unit for over two weeks, Jake left the hospital with a clean bill of health and immense gratitude to Michael. “Jake and I have a strong relationship,” Michael said. “He is very thankful.”
Although the recent spike in opioid use in the community has subsided, Michael remains prepared to administer the emergency procedures. “The experience boosted my confidence,” he added.
Michael was born and raised in the Bronx and currently lives in the Morris Park neighborhood. When he’s not at BronxWorks, Michael is likely to be spending time with his two children or riding his motorcycle. He is inspired by the Agency’s mission and work in the community.
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We recently celebrated 40 years of service to the Bronx community. Every year BronxWorks expands or offers new programs to best serve residents in nearly 30 locations.
