Andrew Meza
Alexandria,VA
Summary
Passion & integrity driven Outreach Specialist & Advocate for vulnerable populations (BIPOC, Queer, Undocumented, Impoverished & Chronically abused) offering considerate and proactive communication skills. Maintains open and positive relationships with clients & staff to foster inclusive & low barrier services. Brings in new projects & re-enforce existing goals through unique & sustainable ideas. Lived experience is applied as well as professional development to provide individualized and quality level of care.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Outreach Specialist
The H3 Project
Washington, DC
01.2024 - Current
- Increased community engagement by being able to reach diverse clients and regularly participating in relevant events to support changing needs.
- Networked with service providers to build new connections and make initial contacts with prospects.
- Recorded, transcribed and maintained confidential client information into HMIS and databases.
- Increased referrals by calling on target groups, organizations and professionals. Specializing in meeting needs for undocumented/special immigrants, Queer, or highly vulnerable populations.
- Represented organization at industry conferences by maintaining booths and giving polished presentations.
- Developed successful partnerships with local organizations for mutually beneficial collaboration and resource sharing.
- Provided crisis intervention & de-escalation when necessary addressing the immediate needs of clients while connecting them to appropriate resources. Trained in trafficking intervention.
Canvassing Director
Threshold Giving
Washington, DC
12.2021 - 12.2023
- Developed high-performing & inclusive teams of 10-20 people by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth for everyone's unique abilities.
- Held nation wide trainings focused on campaign literacy for the International Rescue Committee's goal to support the welfare of refugees globally.
- Worked directly with organizational leadership to create proactive operational strategies.
- Established a culture of individualized improvement by fostering open & transparent communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Kept updated on emerging trends in the humanitarian landscape, ensuring we mindfully advocated for the everchanging needs of displaced communities.
Demolition Laborer
Interior Source Inc.
Washington, DC
01.2020 - 12.2020
- Utilized personal protective equipment during building demolition and asbestos removal.
- Ensured safety by adhering to strict demolition guidelines and protocols throughout each project.
- Supported timely project completion directly assisting as a laborer.
Education
High School Diploma -
Garfield Senior Highschool
Woodbridge, VA2018
Skills
- Mental Health Crisis Response
- Case Management
- Client Housing/Service Referrals
- Attention to Detail
- Crisis Intervention
- HMIS/VI/Full SPDAT training
- Advocacy/Increasing Presence
Certification
- Implicit Bias in Addiction
- Human Trafficking 101
- De-Escalation & Conflict Management
- Care for Opioid Use Disorder
- PrEP Among People Experiencing Homelessness
- Treating Substance Abuse
- VI/TAY/Full SPDAT
- AHA-CPR/AED First Aid Certification
Languages
Spanish
English
holistic medicine, cosmetology, & cultural studies
learning about indigenous knowledge systems approach to healthcare, Empowering queer communities through gender/sexuality affirming self care, & expanding cultural humility to expand my world view
Timeline
Outreach Specialist
The H3 Project
01.2024 - Current
Canvassing Director
Threshold Giving
12.2021 - 12.2023
Demolition Laborer
Interior Source Inc.
01.2020 - 12.2020
High School Diploma -
Garfield Senior Highschool