Journey To Supportive Housing

Congratulations to Robert Nock who was chosen to receive the 2016 Supportive Housing Award for Tenant of the Year by the Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey! This award recognizes an individual living in a supportive housing setting that exemplifies an outstanding tenant though their actions and support of fellow residents.

Examples of leadership demonstrated by the award recipient include:

• Advocating for the concept of supportive housing in the larger community
• Encouraging and supporting fellow residents in their effort to live with stability, autonomy and dignity in a formal or informal manner
• Acting as a role model for fellow supportive housing residents by achieving his or her individual goals
• Strives to make his or her community a better place for everyone

Robert has lived in Oaks Supportive Housing for over 10 years. His caseworker nominated him for this award for demonstrating leadership in advancing supportive housing as a model to peers and associates in his supportive housing program, partial care program and in the workplace. Not only has Robert demonstrated success as a sober and independent resident, his pleasant demeanor allows him to shine as an employee of over five years at Staples.

By talking about his personal experiences, Robert shows others struggling with mental illness and substance abuse that housing and treatment can mean the difference between a person lost and a full meaningful productive life. His caseworker says, “Robert serves as a role model to housemates who continue to struggle with a variety of life problems. He generously shares the resources he has acquired through hard work. Resources include everything from food, to cable television and internet service, to compassion and company in the form of a listening ear when someone is having a bad day.”

In December, the Supportive Housing Association of NJ will publicly recognize Robert at their 18^th Annual NJ Conference. In addition to the Supportive Housing Tenant Award, he will also receive a cash award. We couldn’t be more proud of Robert and can’t wait to support him at the event. Stay tuned for pictures!