SUNY Brockport Student Supports D.C. Residents
Experiencing Homelessness During Internship
Social work and African and African American studies double major Maxwell Johnson spent his fall semester serving at the Father McKenna Center in Washington, D.C., a drop-in day center that provides meals, case management services, and community support for men struggling in our nation’s capital.
“It feels really rewarding that I’m helping them,” Johnson said. “The first thing I always ask is, ‘How can I help you today? What can make you feel better or make your needs feel met?’”
Johnson secured the role of the Father McKenna Center’s only case management intern through the SUNY Washington Internship Program. Johnson helps visitors meet their daily needs and connect with resources that support long-term stability. He also contributes to the food pantry program by unloading produce, managing inventory, and preparing food distributions for guests
“I’ll assist the men in applying for SNAP benefits, transportation, birth certificates, even free cell phones,” Johnson said. “Sometimes they just need someone to talk to.”
Johnson credits SUNY Brockport’s social work program with providing him a strong foundation to help manage his caseload in D.C.
“The social work program taught me a lot about dealing with clients,” Johnson said. “I literally took a whole class on case management — that was extremely helpful since I’m serving in that role now.”
While Johnson always knew he wanted to pursue a career in social work, his time interning at the Father McKenna Center confirmed it’s where he truly belongs.
“I feel like I’ve grown closer to the social worker I see myself becoming,” Johnson said. “There’s nothing else I see myself doing. Social work is my calling.”
One of Johnson’s main priorities as a social work student is to make sure that his clients’ needs are met and that they feel comfortable — a goal he believes all aspiring social workers should follow.
“If you’re going into the field of social work, make sure your heart is in it for the right reasons,” Johnson said. “Always put your clients first and remember what you’re doing and why you’re doing it.”
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