Homelessness Staff Perceptions of Organizational Culture: Fundamental Principles of Hesed

Abstract

The Hebrew concept of Hesed within organizational culture is a promising intervention that can be adopted by agencies seeking out innovative and effective harm reduction approaches to homelessness services. Historically, the principles of Hesed were more widely refined and better understood following Nelson Glueck’s research in the early half of the twentieth century. In modern times, this growth in understanding lead to a broader adoption of Hesed as part of organizational culture. The focus group included a sample size of (N = 10). The results that surfaced included concepts that better defined how staff and those experiencing homelessness were impacted by Hesed. Results included cultural ideals and beliefs that spoke to efficacious interventions connected to themes such as hope, dignity, and empathy. More research is needed to better understand Hesed culture through the lived experiences of people who have faced homelessness or housing instability within this culture as shelter guests. Additionally, researchers should focus on criticisms of Hesed culture, deductive research, and other applications of lessons learned via Grounded Theory to develop Fidelity to Hesed Culture instrumentation. This descriptive qualitative study utilizes ethnographic theoretical underpinnings through sustained engagement to better understand the shared lived experiences of service providers immersed in Hesed organizational culture that provide homelessness and housing services.