Montserrat Zamora Olivares joined HIP Housing as an intern in August 2022 to support HIP Housing’s emerging Housing Readiness Program—an affordable housing initiative that empowers San Mateo County community members to navigate our complex local housing landscape through tailored, one-on-one support.
When Montse began, the Housing Readiness Program was little more than an idea. Together with Laura Fanucchi, HIP Housing’s Director of Programs, Montse has crafted a cohesive client referral process, gathered and collated vital housing resources, and established a Housing Readiness Program Committee. Committee members, which includes former HIP Housing Board President, Shelley Pavela, meet every two weeks to help guide the development of the program.
As a Redwood City local with a passion for helping others, Montse was drawn to HIP Housing to make a difference in the lives of people in her community. In April 2023, Montse transitioned from an intern to a permanent HIP Housing employee and is now the point person for the newly launched Housing Readiness Program.
Montse’s passion is matched only by her deep satisfaction in providing tailored housing support to our clients, especially those in her Spanish-speaking community. She is in the final stage of completing her Masters of Social Work at San José State and is excited to graduate in May 2024.
