FrontLiner Profiles: Shyanne Urban

Shyanne Urban, Traditional Rapid Rehousing, and Domestic Violence Rapid Rehousing Program Manager.

“I love that FrontLine is so integrated in the community, and that we truly meet people where they’re at to make sure they get the services that they need in the way that best suits them. I care about this work because everyone deserves someone to truly support them and help them achieve what is important to them, even if it doesn’t look the way we want it to.”

Shyanne Urban is the Traditional Rapid Rehousing, and Domestic Violence Rapid Rehousing Program Manager and has worked at FrontLine since 2022.

How did you first learn about FrontLine Service?    

I learned about FrontLine Service when I was searching for jobs online and fell in love with the mission when I started to read more about it.  

What is your current role? What are your basic job responsibilities?  

My current role is the Program Manager of our 3 young adult programs, Traditional Rapid Rehousing, and Domestic Violence Rapid Rehousing. As a program manager, I oversee a lot of things, including general program operations, but also improving the quality of care we give to participants. I get the opportunity to work closely with our external partners, including other nonprofit organizations, the Office of Homeless Services, and EDEN to help obtain and maintain housing for our participants. I also supervise staff that do direct service obtaining housing, mental health care, and other basic needs for our participants. 

What is a typical day like for you?  

Every day is different for me, which is what I love about FrontLine! Some days I’m working with the individual participants in the shelters or their homes, some days I’m in partnership meetings collaborating on necessary systems changes, and some days I’m in the office with my staff or fielding needs. 

Why do you work here? Why do you care about this work?  

I work at FrontLine because the work aligns with my personal values while affording me my own personal and professional growth opportunities. I love that FrontLine is so integrated in the community, and that we truly meet people where they’re at to make sure they get the services that they need in the way that best suits them. I care about this work because everyone deserves someone to truly support them and help them achieve what is important to them, even if it doesn’t look the way we want it to.  

What do people often misunderstand about your work or the people you work with?    

People often view social work as enabling, or that people don’t want help... and that simply isn’t true. It’s incredibly hard to ask for help, be vulnerable, and to be faced with so many stressors. Plus, many of our folks struggle with substance use, mental health symptoms, homelessness, and even domestic violence. Making changes or asking for help while trying to survive day to day is often not possible for people without support.  

What is your favorite part of your job?    

This is the hardest question to answer, because I don’t have just one favorite. I think the most rewarding part of my job is seeing the growth the participants have or getting to achieve their goals (especially big ones like getting them housing!). I also love my job because I feel like I have a real opportunity to impact the system and services we offer – you don’t get that just anywhere. 

What is the hardest part of your job?  

The hardest part of my job is definitely when things don’t work out for a participant. Sometimes, there’s not enough resources, the person isn’t ready to make a significant change, there are too many systems barriers, or other reasons this could happen. I’d also say that it’s hard being just one person – the amount of change I want to make isn’t always possible in a day. 

What do you do to practice resiliency?  

I think resiliency is incredibly important, and I like to do things that fill my cup. I take days off to travel, spend time with family, binge my favorite shows, and listen to my own needs. 

What is a hobby, interest, or routine you have that is not related to work?  

I have a huge passion for animals and have several rescue cats. I also have reptiles, so that often surprises people about me! 

What is one thing you would want the community to understand about the work you do?    

I would want the community to understand that safe affordable housing and mental health work matters. Each of our participants matters. I think people need to understand the breadth of resources that are available in this county as well and break down some of the barriers for us to take advantage of them! 

Is there anything else you want to share about yourself or the work you do?  

I’m grateful that my MSW experience has been so great because of the support, encouragement, and opportunities afforded to me here at FrontLine. I balance working full time with full time classes (on top of all of my interests and personal life!), but love every minute of what I do, which makes it all worth it. 

What would you say to someone who is interested in working at FrontLine? 

I would say do it! FrontLine has so many departments, so many opportunities, and changes so many lives. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with other great professionals.  

FrontLiner Profiles reflect the views of the person interviewed.  
They do not necessarily reflect the view of FrontLine Service.