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Mary Brewster
Director of Harm Reduction Services at Harlem United
Professional Background
Mary Brewster has cultivated a robust career as a dedicated and compassionate advocate in the field of social work, particularly focusing on community health initiatives and HIV/AIDS prevention strategies. With a profound commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals affected by HIV and other social determinants of health, Mary has held numerous significant positions in various reputable organizations. Her rich professional narrative reflects her evolution from a counselor to leadership roles, demonstrating her deep-seated passion for social justice and community well-being.
Mary's journey in the social work profession began with her academic pursuit of a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at The University of Kansas. This foundational education equipped her with an understanding of human behavior, critical for anyone working within community health and social services. Building on this knowledge, she furthered her expertise by earning a Master of Social Work (MSW) with an emphasis on Community Practice at DePaul University. This advanced education has been instrumental in shaping her professional outlook and providing her with the skills necessary to address complex social issues within communities.
Throughout her esteemed career, Mary held pivotal positions that allowed her to impact countless lives. Most notably, she served as the Director of Harm Reduction Services at Harlem United, where she led initiatives focused on reducing the harms associated with substance use and provided critical interventions for those affected by HIV. Under her leadership, Harlem United developed evidence-based strategies to support marginalized communities, enhancing access to essential health services and educational resources.
Moreover, Mary's leadership extended to the role of Director of Social Services at the Howard Brown Health Center. In this capacity, she managed comprehensive social services designed to support the health and well-being of individuals in the Chicago area. Her time at Howard Brown was characterized by her ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, promote social equity, and address the unique needs of her clients.
In addition to her direct service roles, Mary was the Program Manager for the Ryan White Part C and Part D Programs at Howard Brown Health Center, where she oversaw critical funding that supports treatment, care, and support services for people living with HIV. Her strategic oversight ensured that these programs remained responsive to the evolving needs of the community.
Mary's previous roles demonstrate her deep commitment to HIV prevention and education, evident in her time as a Program Coordinator at the Pediatric AIDS Chicago Prevention Initiative. This initiative focuses on youth education and access to care, where Mary's influence contributed significantly to the preventative landscape of HIV in the region. Her early experience as an HIV Testing and Prevention Counselor at the Chicago House and Social Service Agency allowed her to lay the groundwork for the impactful work she would later pursue.
In addition to her professional roles, Mary is an active member of the New York City HIV Planning Group, serving as a Community Co-Chair. From this influential position, she collaborates with various stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that enhance HIV care and prevention systems in New York City, underscoring her dedication to community engagement and leadership in public health.
Education and Achievements
Mary Brewster's educational background sets a solid foundation for her extensive work in social services and community health. By studying Psychology at The University of Kansas, she gained valuable insights into behavioral sciences, which she later applied in her social work practice. This understanding is crucial when designing and implementing community-based health initiatives, particularly in addressing the complexities surrounding HIV prevention.
Continuing her academic pursuits, Mary obtained a Master of Social Work from DePaul University with a focus on Community Practice. Her MSW not only enhanced her theoretical knowledge but also augmented her practical skills through intensive fieldwork experiences, further preparing her for the challenges and rewards of working in social services.
Mary's commitment to professional development and continued learning is reflected in her successive advancement through various leadership roles within notable health organizations. As a result of her hard work and dedication, she has made substantial contributions to the field of social work, especially in her specialized focus on HIV care and harm reduction.
Achievements
Throughout her professional career, Mary Brewster has achieved various milestones that reflect her commitment and contributions. Her notable achievements include:
- Leadership in Harm Reduction: As Director of Harm Reduction Services at Harlem United, Mary led programs that helped reduce the rate of HIV transmission and improved health outcomes for marginalized populations.
- Innovative Program Management: While serving as Program Manager for the Ryan White Part C and Part D Programs at Howard Brown Health Center, she effectively managed vital health funding to ensure that individuals living with HIV had access to necessary medical care, support, and resources.
- Community Engagement: Her role as Community Co-Chair for the New York City HIV Planning Group illustrates her leadership and dedication to engaging the community in crucial discussions regarding HIV prevention and treatment policies. Under her guidance, community voices are brought to the forefront, ensuring that services are tailored to the needs of those most affected.
- Advancement of Youth Initiatives: Mary's work with the Pediatric AIDS Chicago Prevention Initiative marks a significant commitment to educating and supporting young people regarding HIV prevention, helping to shape future generations' understanding and ability to address public health issues.