Jeniece Tillman was hired in June 2005 as a tenant liaison, and she quickly established herself as a hard-working employee willing to accept multiple responsibilities. As Christie Tatman, the department’s lead tenant liaison, prepared to transition to the property manager position at Emerald Commons, Jeniece stepped in to help manage tenant concerns in a timely manner. In December 2006, she officially took over as lead tenant liaison.
Jeniece, who double majored in sociology and criminology at Cleveland State University, assists EDEN tenants with moving, rent collection, mediation, recertifications, obtaining release information and more. She also works closely with the maintenance department to be sure tenants’ landscaping and maintenance needs are taken care of. Her favorite part of the job, however, is simply talking to the tenants.
“You can tell that some [tenants] don’t have anyone to talk to,” she says. Whether it’s talking to an older tenant who reminds her of a kindly uncle, or chatting with a mother about her child’s achievements, Jeniece is happy to take the time to listen.
A history of case management experience contributes to Jeniece’s compassion for EDEN tenants. Before joining EDEN, Jeniece worked as a case manager for Recovery Resources’ Parole Act, where she worked with dual-diagnosed clients exiting correctional institutions. She also worked with children at the Cleveland Christian Home.
Since she has joined EDEN, Jeniece’s professional opportunities continue to grow. She has already been slated to take on the property manager position at The Liberty at St. Clair, the second supportive housing project EDEN has partnered to develop. “I’m excited and ready,” she says of her upcoming promotion. The Liberty at St. Clair is expected to open in December 2007.
Jeniece thanks management for noticing her hard work by selecting her for the employee of the month honor. “It made me feel more a part of EDEN,” she says of the award. “Thank you.”
