Sonseeray M. Heard
Shelter Attendant Specialist
Dayton,OH
Summary
Dedicated professional with extensive experience in shelter operations and therapeutic environments. Known for strong communication and conflict resolution skills, committed to fostering safe, supportive spaces for individuals in need.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Engagement & Shelter Attendant Specialist
Homeful Housing * Food * Jobs / Locations: VA - Moraine - Keowee
Dayton, Oh
01.1980 - 04.2026
- Managed daily operations of shelter, ensuring safety and comfort for residents.
- Provided compassionate support to individuals experiencing homelessness, fostering a welcoming environment.
- Coordinated intake procedures, assessing needs and connecting clients with appropriate resources.
- Developed and implemented programs promoting life skills and employment readiness among residents.
- Collaborated with community organizations to expand service offerings and enhance resident support.
- Monitored facility conditions, identifying maintenance needs to ensure a safe living environment.
- Facilitated workshops on nutrition and personal health to promote well-being among residents.
- Managed confidential client records in accordance with privacy regulations, maintaining accurate data on each individual served at the shelter.
- Promoted a sense of community among residents through facilitating group activities such as meals or recreational events.
- Improved client self-sufficiency through providing skill-building workshops on topics like budgeting or job searching techniques.
- Conducted assessments of clients'' needs, connecting them to appropriate resources such as mental health services or job training programs.
- Ensured safety of shelter residents by monitoring activities and addressing conflicts as needed.
- Served as a liaison between shelter residents and external service providers, facilitating communication to ensure clients'' needs were met.
- Coordinated volunteer efforts within the shelter, ensuring maximum utilization of valuable human resources for various tasks.
Therapeutic Program Worker (TPW)
Dayton State Mental Health Hospital
Dayton, Oh
09.1965 - 06.1978
- Facilitated therapeutic group sessions to promote patient engagement and recovery.
- Developed individualized treatment plans in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
- Conducted assessments to evaluate patients' emotional and psychological needs.
- Implemented crisis intervention strategies to ensure patient safety and well-being.
- Improved patient engagement in therapy sessions by incorporating relevant activities and materials tailored to their interests.
- Enhanced patient well-being by developing personalized therapeutic programs based on individual needs and goals.
- Ensured a safe and nurturing environment for patients by conducting regular facility inspections and addressing potential hazards promptly.
- Assisted clients with daily living skills such as grooming hygiene meal preparation promoting selfsufficiency.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to create comprehensive care plans, ensuring effective communication and coordination of services.
- Developed strategies to help patients cope with stress and anxiety and build resilience.
- Guided clients in development of skills and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.
Forensic Prison
Dayton State Mental Health Hospital
Dayton, Oh
1965 - 1978
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions, and make decisions.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
Education
On Site Work Enhancement Courses & Workshops
Dayton, OHSkills
- Strong communication skills
- Patience and tolerance
- Animal care expertise
- Compassion and empathy
- Active listening
- Conflict resolution
- First aid and CPR certification
- Crisis management
- Stress management techniques
Timeline
Engagement & Shelter Attendant Specialist
Homeful Housing * Food * Jobs / Locations: VA - Moraine - Keowee
01.1980 - 04.2026
Therapeutic Program Worker (TPW)
Dayton State Mental Health Hospital
09.1965 - 06.1978
Forensic Prison
Dayton State Mental Health Hospital
1965 - 1978
On Site Work Enhancement Courses & Workshops
Various awards and certificates during career
I have worked in the mental health field for over 30 years.
Throughout my journey and career I have received various awards, certificate, and accolades.
"On-the-job" training has added value and continues to add value to my overall skill set; keeping my skills relevant and current in 2026.