[Feature] Social Worker Tamara Dopwell: Using Creativity to Help Homeless Families

Tamara Dopwell introduced herself to me about 6 months before the pandemic paralyzed the country. I know that I am not alone when I say, ‘before the pandemic.’ Now, many of us speak of time relative to the pandemic. BP means before the pandemic and AP means after the pandemic. In any event, I received an email 6 months before the pandemic that read:

“Hi, I am a fellow social worker and own a t-shirt line. I would love to advertise on your platform. Looking forward to hearing from you.”

You never know what the outcome will be when you get an email like this. Is it phishing? Is it spam? Will it enhance business? As a part-time entrepreneur, I value relationship building. Strong relationships are the bedrock of strong businesses. So, reading an email from a ‘fellow social worker,’ piqued my interest. As a result, Tee, as she is known, and I have communicated on and off since that time. Both of us are working to build sustainable businesses that serve and uplift our communities.

A Creative Entrepreneur

Tee demonstrates her creativity and business acumen by designing and selling t-shirts with a message. This is a natural extension for the Brooklyn, New York resident. She is a 15 – year social work veteran who currently works full-time as an Elder Justice Social Worker. Tee said, “I believe it is my life purpose!” Ten percent of all Designs by Tee sales is donated to help disadvantaged families and children in Brooklyn, New York.

Social workers see the plight of families firsthand. Tee became frustrated by the lack of concrete resources for homeless families. According to the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, the top three causes of homelessness are “lack of affordable housing, unemployment, poverty and low wages.” Also, domestic violence is a major contributor of homelessness among women. Additionally, minorities pay a higher percentage of earned wages for housing. The following was taken from the report.

“According to the same report, racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected. In 2012, 27% of African – American households paid over 50% of their incomes in rent, along with 24% of Hispanic households and 21% of Asian households; only 14% of White households paid over 50% of their incomes in rent.”

Juggling Life and Purpose

Tee’s purpose in life does not come without struggle. She must juggle nurturing her growing business while working a full-time job and raising her 9 – year old child. Time management is among her top stressors. She said, “I usually tend to my family matters and after they are sleep, I burn the midnight oil.”

Burning the midnight oil has helped to elevate the profile of Designs by Tee, LLC a “Positive Motivation and Socially Conscious T-shirt line.” Tee employs a positive attitude and outlook to counter the stresses of business and life. She wrote:

“When you are positive, even in stressful situations, you are mindful of the greater good.” She knows that her hard work will benefit the people in her community. When things become overwhelming, she takes time for self-care, reduces her tasks, or delegates responsibilities. She believes that circumstances can change when one changes their thoughts and adjusts their actions. Tee also makes time for physical activity.

Through the stress of the pandemic, Tee pursued her passion and purpose. Today, she continues to meet the challenges of growing a business, working full-time, and raising a family. Ultimately, homeless families in Brooklyn, New York will benefit as her business grows.

You may view and purchase products directly from the Designs by Tee LLC website. Also follow Designs by Tee LLC on Instagram.

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