March 28, 2025

New Community Hero Takes Charge in Arlington’s Fight Against Homelessness

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI)

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI) is a Michigan-based organization specializing in trauma rehabilitation medical case management. With over 34 years of experience, CRCI is dedicated to empowering survivors of catastrophic auto accidents to regain control of their lives and achieve both physical and emotional well-being. Their team of Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSWs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) are experts in navigating the complexities of today’s healthcare system, ensuring that survivors receive the necessary services for their recovery and rehabilitation. CRCI’s core values include advocacy, people, knowledge, and dependability, reflecting their commitment to being leading advocates and facilitators of long-term collaborative care.

News Summary

Denisa Burt is the new community-resource and homelessness-prevention coordinator for Arlington’s Department of Health and Human Services. With a strong background in support services and community outreach, Burt aims to help individuals at risk of homelessness access vital resources. Her appointment comes with a mission to combat issues like housing instability and food insecurity, and the community eagerly anticipates her innovative approaches to these challenges.

New Community Hero Takes Charge in Arlington’s Fight Against Homelessness

There’s a fresh face in town, and she’s ready to make waves! Denisa Burt has officially stepped into the role of community-resource and homelessness-prevention coordinator for Arlington’s Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and she’s filled with energy and determination. Her mission? To help individuals at risk of homelessness or experiencing it directly access essential resources and services.

What Does the Job Entail?

Burt’s role involves a wide array of responsibilities aimed at ensuring that residents under the age of 60 can access the help they really need. This includes vital support in areas like housing, food insecurity, and health care. With an annual salary of $67,497, Burt is primed to make a meaningful difference in the community.

A Strong Background in Support Services

Before stepping into this important new position, Burt showcased her skills as a developmental specialist at Criterion Child Enrichment. In that role, she was deeply involved in assessing needs, making referrals, and building solid relationships with both community providers and clients. These experiences have equipped her to effectively tackle the challenges that come with her current role.

Burt’s dedication to service doesn’t stop there; she also worked at the Inclusion Initiative in Cambridge as an inclusion specialist. Here, she focused on assisting children with disabilities and enhancing their social interactions. This rich history of working with various populations truly highlights Burt’s commitment to community service.

Education and Skills Galore

With a Bachelor’s degree in children, youth, and family studies from Lesley University, along with dual minors in psychology and communications and media analysis, Burt brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Her background provides a strong foundation for assessing the needs of individuals and families in vulnerable situations.

A Warm Welcome

Colleen Leger, the HHS director, couldn’t be more pleased with Burt’s arrival. She emphasizes Burt’s incredible skills in needs assessment, case management, and community outreach as critical assets that will benefit Arlington’s residents greatly. The sense of optimism surrounding Burt’s appointment is palpable, and the community is backing her wholeheartedly.

Burt’s Vision for the Future

Starting her new position on December 23, 2024, Burt is eager to hit the ground running. She has expressed her deep appreciation for the supportive environment in Arlington and is fully committed to utilizing her skills to serve vulnerable populations. The community is buzzing with anticipation as they look forward to the innovative approaches she might bring to the table.

A Previous Coordinator’s Legacy

This position comes after Libby Lazar held the role for a time, serving from September 2022 to December 2024. But the baton has been passed, and now Denisa Burt is ready to take the lead. The emphasis is on ensuring that this transition leads to even greater support for Arlington’s residents who face housing challenges.

Conclusion

With a fresh perspective and a heart full of compassion, Denisa Burt is ready to tackle the complex issues surrounding homelessness and community needs in Arlington. Her diverse background in developmental support and her desire to make a meaningful impact make her an exciting addition to the team. The community can look forward to seeing how her efforts will shape a brighter future for all!