I needed a hand, not a hand out and that is what Project PLASE offered me. After a really rough year going through my son's illness, job loss, and the loss of my vehicle I really needed some assistance to help me get back on track. The staff was caring, helpful, prayerful, and always accommodating. These people moved with purpose on my behalf and addressed each issue that I had. I was most impressed with the staff because of their ability to be non-judgemental and non condescending in attitude. It appeared as though they were genuinely working from a place of genuine care and support. Just what I needed. I was having a hard time dealing with my situation because this was the first time in my life that I had to ask for help. It still wasn't easy but they made it better. I would highly recommend that anyone needing or interested in assistance to help get back on your feet permanently to go see these people asap.
Review from Guidestar
I have attempted to use the services project place provides. I was referred there by my V.A representative. I strongly advise veterans to seek services regarding homelessness elsewhere.
I am really glad to be a part of Project PLASE, a non-profit organization with more than three decades of experience serving the most vulnerable homeless citizens.
Volunteering is an important part of Project PLASE. I am a volunteer from Germany and for me it was very important to help the homeless in the USA because in my home country we have a very good insurance system and the homeless problem is not as big as it is in the States.
It is a very good feeling to help our clients achieve their goals and objectives. For example, it feels good when a client successfully leave our transitional housing facility to live on their own.
I also enjoy the pleasant working atmosphere. For example, the staff is always there in case I have a question. Moreover the workers are so caring and we always try to find the best way for our clients.
It was a good decision for me to choose Project PLASE as the place where I want to spend my year as a volunteer and I am looking forward to what I can do to help during my year here and I am so glad to have this experience.
I volunteer at Project PLASE through the organization of Mennonite Mission Network. Since others from my organizations have worked here in the past, my position is well supported. I really enjoy the connection that I have had the opportunity to make with our clients, the most vulnerable homeless of Baltimore. I feel that I can bring them joy through caring about their lives, listening to their stories, and working to ensure their success and transition back into society. Most of all, I have been deeply touched by the way that our clients have opened up to me, appreciated my service, and become my friends.
I have been volunteering with Project PLASE since September of 2011. It is clear to me how much the staff truly cares for every client - they have individualized case plans, and the staff takes a holistic approach to their care. Many of the clients who are living in permanent housing in the community are still connected, visit often, and are involved in Project PLASE commitees. Project PLASE seeks to serve the most vulnerable homeless populations in Baltimore.
Project PLASE assists the most vulnerable and weak of the homeless population of Baltimore transition to a more stable, productive life. In the process the clients not only make positive life strides, due to the multifaceted support they receive, but also make lifelong friends. As a board member I feel a great deal of pride helping to make decisions that strengthen this outstanding non-profit. With more than three decades of service to the community, this organization has had the benefit of a singularly committed leader, who understands both the problems and many of the solutions. Her commitment has been an inspiration to me as I've worked with her and the rest of the board...who are also very dedicated. During the past two years we've seen our funding shrink, as have most non-profits. One of our greatest challenges now is to be creative in how and where we look for additional funding going forward.
In my opinion Project PLASE is a great organization and is doing a very good job. I was starting in August 2010 as a full time volunteer. My job is to fill the beds in the facilities. Project PLASE gives me the opportunity to take much responsibility and I very appreciate that. I come from Germany and I don't think this would be able there. I am really enjoying the work here. My Co-workers are very friendly and it was more than helpful to have them around in the beginning, when I was getting used to the job and learning the language.
When I came to Project PLASE, I was more excited by the actual work that I would be doing as the Community Projects Coordinator, rather than the larger picture of the fight against homelessness. However, after volunteering here since August, I am excited to say that I have grown a passion for the fight to eliminate homelessness. This happened through the relationships I have made and the stories I have heard from community members/partners, staff, and clients. It has been a pleasure working with such passionate, competent, and caring staff at PLASE. The entire organization cares deeply about the well being of others. It has truely inspired me to see Project PLASE never give up on any client, regardless of the troubles they come in with.
I was an AmeriCorps*VISTA at Project PLASE during 2009-2010. It was an amazing experience. I was given a chance to take on meaningful work with staff members who made me feel welcome. Project PLASE has a commitment to bring out the best in its clients, staff and volunteers. I will always cherish the relationships I built at Project PLASE.
Project PLASE is many things, it houses, feeds, counsels, advises and understands clients needs. Housing an array of people, from veterans to mentally ill to transgenders allows it to hit something for people across the board who are in need. Helping such an array of people can be difficult, but PLASE tends to do it well, though with a bit of disorganization. The staff have their heart in the right place and it is a constructive, positive presence in the community.
