Meet Jennifer Sheedy of Providence Network

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Sheedy.

Jennifer, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Back in 2010, as a 30-something with a master’s degree in counseling and psychology but unsure about my career plans or life direction, I did what many single women that age do — I followed a man to Denver in pursuit of marriage! Little did I know, while the relationship began to dissolve, my passion and calling to the trenches of people’s lives would emerge. Like any beauty-from-ashes story, it wasn’t pretty, at least not in the beginning.

After the long-time, live-in director of Providence House and his family moved on, I was invited to make “Prov” my home for the foreseeable future as the second single female director in 25 years. I agreed, and from there, I learned to lead from weakness rather than strength, fully recognizing I was passionate but not necessarily equipped for the task.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I found that the community and transformation taking place inside the Providence House is a messy kind of beautiful that requires staff to bring their whole self and their whole heart. I also learned very quickly that the culture of the home was healthy and bonded only to the degree that the staff team was healthy and bonded, and that this mattered far more than the knowledge or skill of the director. Perhaps most importantly, I got really good at apologizing; I’ve decided good leadership cannot survive without this.

Today, after more than nine years serving full time in the home, seven years living on-site, and hundreds of hours sitting with inspiring humans fighting for their lives, I have a heart full of purpose and an “adopted” family that makes all the other sacrifices worth it.

Please tell us about Providence Network.
Providence Network is a leader in creating effective, sustainable housing and life solutions for individuals, youth and families. We operate three transitional housing programs in Denver—Providence House, serving single men and women recovering from addictions; Joy House, a home for victims of domestic violence and their children; and Silver Lining House for homeless young adults ages 18 to 25—as well as three affordable housing communities. Our programs combine professional services within a therapeutic, home-like environment. Staff members serve as mentors, coaches and case managers living in the houses 24/7 to provide daily accountability and support. This relational approach, paired with best practices in housing services, helps set the stage for long-term stability and success.

Contact Info:

• Address: 801 Logan Street
  Denver, CO 80203
• Website: www.providencenetwork.org
• Phone: 3038608404
• Instagram: @providencenetwork
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProvidenceNetwork

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