Debra Hendren and Mellena Martinez share a passion for both AmeriCorps and the clients they work with at the Community Housing Network, which serves Oakland and Macomb Counties in Southeast Michigan. In addition to their day-to-day responsibilities, Debra and Mellena are also Site Supervisors for the Michigan's Campaign to End Homelessness AmeriCorps program. Mellena happens to be a former AmeriCorps member who served in a program in Mississippi.

Although they are both extraordinarily busy, they are always responsive to program needs and requirements. Debra and Mellena are very invested in their members, Lakesha Williams and Cheryl Grover, and handle conflict with patience and a great sense of humor. Cheryl shared an experience when members faced some difficulty during a crowded outreach event and Mellena stepped in to help smooth over tensions and provide assistance.

"Mellena made sure everyone was safe," Cheryl recalled. "We all worked together to help the clients fill out HARP applications, link, and educate. Mellena served right along with us and still continues to do so this day."

Cheryl had nothing but positive things to say about Debra as well. "Debra's work reflects that of concern and care for the homeless, as well as an ongoing supportive attitude. She has been a great inspiration in serving the homeless."

Lakesha, whose AmeriCorps service has influenced her to change her major to Human Services, says her experiences with Debra and Mellena have led to great personal growth. "They have definitely taught me a lot about myself, and how to take constructive criticism and use it to become a better person."

Site Supervisors are critical to member and program success, and it is supervisors like Debra and Mellena who make a big difference!

For more information about the Michigan's Campaign to End Homelessness AmeriCorps program, please contact program director Melissa Grant at grantm2@michigan.govor (517) 335-3213. For more information on AmeriCorps, visit www.americorps.gov.