Livermore Social Worker Supports Livermore’s Most Vulnerable Residents

Kim Curtis, LCSW, has been working with the unhoused population since 2005, specializing in mental health and addiction. Curtis brings that valuable experience to her role as Executive Director of Goodness Village, a tiny home neighborhood that aims to stop the cycle of chronic homelessness.

In conversation with Patch, Curtis discussed her work with Goodness Village, her ongoing dedication to the greater community and what she loves most about being part of the Tri-Valley.

Answers have been edited for clarity and length.

Patch: How long have you lived in the Tri-Valley area? What made you decide to get more involved in the greater community?

Curtis: We have been Tri-Valley neighbors for nearly 16 years, and we bought our home in Livermore in March 2020. Our daughters have been students in both Livermore and Dublin. As a social worker with a career of nearly 20 years working with our most vulnerable neighbors, I felt compelled to join CrossWinds Church and Former County Supervisor Scott Haggerty on this housing solution project and develop the Goodness Village supportive program.

Patch: Through your work with Goodness Village, you have been recognized as a leader in the Livermore community. Can you tell us a bit about what this recognition means to you?

Curtis: I am humbled to be nominated. This is my first time being recognized in this way. Three years ago I couldn't imagine the impact Goodness Village would have on this Valley. l am continually in awe at how our locally housed neighbors have embraced the village, sought to learn more about the struggles of being homeless and thus developed empathy, and then became actively involved in helping us provide a healing space filled with respect and dignity.

Patch: Your ongoing dedication to Livermore extends beyond your work. Can you tell us about some of the community events you’ve partaken in?

Curtis: My husband and I no longer go on regular dates! We now try to schedule our date nights around the needs of our greater community. We've attended galas, veterans’ events, poker nights, paint nights, charity bike rides, 5K races and festivals all supporting our neighboring nonprofits. We are either guests or volunteers. I know how hard it is to raise money as a nonprofit, and every single one of our programs is needed, so I want to help and support where I can.

Patch: What do you love most about being a part of the Tri-Valley?

Curtis: I love the Tri-Valley. I love how the cities collaborate for the betterment of everyone who lives and works here. Somehow we've been able to preserve that small-town feel and we take care of our neighbors.

Patch: Is there anything else you'd like Patch readers to know about Goodness Village?

Curtis: Goodness Village has volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups. We are also moving forward on our phase II which includes a community center and additional homes. We are eager to help more of our vulnerable neighbors transition out of homelessness.

I'd also like people to know that I love answering questions they might have about Goodness Village. I've heard there are people who "don't want to bother" me because I look so busy — but I wish they would. People naturally have a lot of questions about what we are doing, why we are doing it and how we do it. Please don't hesitate to reach out. I'll even take you on a tour!

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