Homeless residents in Albuquerque are seeing progress toward stability and employment through the Better Way Forward program, which is approaching its one-year anniversary. The initiative, based on the City’s earlier There’s a Better Way effort, offers participants paid work, transportation, case management, and additional resources to help them achieve housing stability and financial independence.
Over the past year, more than 50 individuals have participated as Duke City Ambassadors. These city crews are responsible for cleaning streets, removing graffiti, and maintaining public spaces. The program has helped participants develop job skills while taking steps toward self-sufficiency.
“Gaining the opportunity to better the community and help keep the community clean also gave me housing, full-time employment and good job skills, people skills and hospitality skills,” said Travis Babcock, a graduate of the program. “This job makes me feel good about myself, my community, and makes me hopeful for my family. Starting with Better Way Forward and now working for the regular Duke City Community Ambassadors has changed my life.”
Program data shows that ten participants have moved from Gateway facilities into temporary or permanent housing. Eleven people are currently active in the program with three more going through pre-hire processes. Five graduates have completed the program and secured full-time jobs outside city government.
Mayor Tim Keller commented on the visible impact of these efforts: “Every day you can see Duke City Ambassadors out there making a visible difference — cleaning streets, picking up litter, and representing our city with pride. Their work is as much about cleaning as it is about purpose. Through Better Way Forward, folks are finding meaningful work, rebuilding stability, and helping Albuquerque shine a little brighter.”
The Solid Waste Management Department works alongside Gateway Network partners to provide consistent wages as well as access to case management services and financial literacy training for participants.
Neighborhood groups and businesses have been inspired by these efforts to join in community cleanups across Albuquerque.
“These are some of the hardest working people you’ll find,” said Operations Manager Deiandra Cole. “Every one of my Better Way Forward program participants are so determined to do their jobs well because they truly love being able to give something back to their community as they take steps toward a more stable future.”
While all current slots in Better Way Forward are filled at this time, recruitment continues at Gateway Network sites in anticipation of new openings as current members graduate from the program.
