I was quite fortunate when I was hired as the Executive Director of the Torres Community Shelter to find people working here that were dedicated to the best interests of our guests. Over the last year, we have even added to the strengths of our staff. The individuals who work at the Shelter never lose sight of the fact that we are here for the guests and our decisions and approaches reflect that priority. Interacting with dozens of people per day who are in crisis requires exceptional people skills, a considerable degree of emotional intelligence, a strong work ethic and a sincere compassion for the well-being of others. —Brad

Who we are and why we work at the Torres Communtiy Shelter:

Executive Director

Brad Montgomery: I've been doing nonprofit work for close to 20 years. I've always been motivated by the simple wish to help people and I feel incredibly fortunate that I'm able to make a living and meet my basic needs helping others. I moved to Chico a few years ago after my children were grown and in college and I love Chico. The people in Butte County, the climate and the priorities that our community demonstrates daily make me proud to be a part of what we're doing here. brad@chicoshelter.org 

Service Coordinator Supervisor

Patrick: I work at this shelter to create options for individuals experiencing homelessness. I believe this process to have value, lasting, tangible value. The gravity of this work resonates daily, and serves to motivate me to help members of my community with overcoming barriers. I believe that we all have worth and that we all have something to offer. I am fortunate to be reminded of service, humanity, compassion and dignity at the Torres Community Shelter. I am made aware of our interconnectedness and need for connection every day. It makes me a better person.

Service Coordinators

Johnny: The primary reason one would work at a shelter is to help people. This rings true for me. I find it significant to know that my actions improve the lives of those around me by providing the opportunity to remove the barriers that limit an individual's self sufficiency. I also currently work part-time for Butte County Behavioral Health as a Behavioral Health Counselor assessing individuals in crisis. Before that, I interned at the 6th St. Youth Center working to serve transitional age homeless youth to improve their situations.

Lupe: Life brings us happiness and sorrows. I want to be part of a team that helps guide others to experience more happiness, and less sorrows.

Shelter Coordinator

Kira: Make an impact.

Shelter Monitors

Cindi: Completing my Associates Degree in Social & Behavioral Science was a huge accomplishment. I came to the shelter as a volunteer and now am a Monitor. I am pursuing a Bachelor's Degree while helping others and enjoying the journey.

Courtney: Each day is an opportunity to learn from humans and the experiences they have encountered ...I show up each day at the shelter with open ears and an open heart ready to learn from the individuals who walk through our doors.

Jacob: Working on a medical degree, I would like to eventually become a trauma surgeon. I am also interested in social work & psychology. I am currently taking classes that mirror these interests. I wanted to work here because I love helping people and making a difference.

Jacque: To be a positive light in people lives.

James:  There is always a need for us to help people and this is my opportunity to do just that. My hope is we all can participate in helping one each other in some way or another.

Joe: I work at this shelter to give support to people in need and to have a positive, lasting impact on those we serve, as well as the community we live in. The Torres Shelter is an avenue for positive change in the lives of so many people who need a helping hand, and I am honored to have the chance to work at such an amazing organization.

Mercedes: If I can help change the life of one person for the better with my actions. It makes it all worth it.