From the day we opened in 2018, Joey Harrison has been an integral part of the Temescal Works community, and a steady presence at our building. But the work he does extends well beyond our doors.

The Operations Manager for the Temescal Business Improvement District, Joey is also the founder of The Village of Love, a nonprofit organization that delivers services and support to Oakland’s unsheltered population, in addition to operating a shelter in Alameda. The vital contributions of this loving Village have made headlines around the bay. Read more about Village of Love here.

Earlier this month, Joey took on yet another role when Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf tapped him to serve on the city’s newly formed nine-person advisory commission on homelessness. The appointment comes amid a deepening crisis in the city, which has one of the fastest-growing and largest per capita populations of unsheltered residents in California.

Joey’s work on behalf of those in greatest need has been tireless and selfless. As Thanksgiving approaches, please join us in wishing him the best in his continued efforts, and in expressing the gratitude we feel to have him in our lives.

// photo credit: Aric Crabb/Bay Area News Group