Experience is the Best Teacher

Hello my name is Tamika Davis-Moore, and I am a second-year AmeriCorps member serving with the Michigan’s Campaign to End Homelessness AmeriCorps program. My service site is the Community Housing Network (CHN) in Troy, MI. The Community Housing Network is dedicated to providing homes for people in need and access to resources to create sustainable communities.

At CHN I serve as the PATH outreach specialist. PATH stands for “Projects to Assist in Transition from Homelessness.” I do street outreach to individuals that have severe and persistent mental illness and who are homeless. The program is unique because we have to be creative in building trusting relationships with individuals who feel they have been let down and taken advantage of by various systems and people. In the past two years I have assisted more than 300 individuals with resources and 44 people with permanent housing. It has been a very rewarding experience!



One of the most successful individuals I’ve worked with had been homeless for six years. When I met Terrance at the soup kitchen, he was sleeping outside when the shelter was full, and in need of physical and mental health treatment. I coordinated services with mental health and the free health clinic. Soon after, I gained his trust and he started substance abuse treatment. I then coordinated services with SSI/SSDI so he could receive benefits. Six months later I was able to find him housing. He achieved what we in the program call the “four legged stool” to remain sustainable (benefits, housing, supports, and daily active living). I shared Terrance’s story and he and I were invited to speak on the importance of the program. I am very proud of Terrance, who is still doing very well.



My year as a LeaderCorps member has been challenging, yet very rewarding. I enjoyed meeting new people and learning about their programs and the important role they play in the community. I have increased my public speaking skills and networked with people to build lasting relationships. The Russ Mawby Signature Service Project, which took place May 16-17 in Lansing, was a great experience that showed me how people can make a huge difference in lives and communities when they come together.

My AmeriCorps service and involvement in LeaderCorps has made a positive impact in my life. I gained experience and skills that will advance my future in the human services profession. Experience really is the best teacher.