One Year Later, Better Way Forward Delivering Real Results

Homeless residents are achieving goals they once considered out of reach this year thanks to Better Way Forward as its one-year anniversary approaches. The program has empowered vulnerable Albuquerque residents to rebuild their lives through meaningful employment, service to their community, and other opportunities.

Informed by the City’s original There’s a Better Way initiative, Better Way Forward established a more sustainable model — connecting clients in the Gateway Center and Gateway West facilities with paid work, transportation, case management, and wraparound resources to help them move toward housing stability and financial independence.

Over the past year, the program has helped more than 50 people find structure, dignity, and purpose through their work as Duke City Ambassadors, the City crews responsible for beautifying and maintaining Albuquerque’s public spaces. Participants have cleaned streets, removed graffiti, and connected with residents in need — while also taking vital steps toward self-sufficiency.

“Gaining the opportunity to better the community and help keep the community clean also gave me housing, full-time employment and good job skills, people skills and hospitality skills,” said program graduate Travis Babcock. “This job makes me feel good about myself, my community, and makes me hopeful for my family. Starting with Better Way Forward and now working for the regular Duke City Community Ambassadors has changed my life.”

Program Highlights

• 10 program participants transitioned from the Gateway network into temporary or permanent housing.
• 11 currently working in the program with 3 more working through the pre-hire process.
• 5 program graduates have completed the program and moved into full-time jobs outside the City.

“Every day you can see Duke City Ambassadors out there making a visible difference — cleaning streets, picking up litter, and representing our city with pride,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Their work is as much about cleaning as it is about purpose. Through Better Way Forward, folks are finding meaningful work, rebuilding stability, and helping Albuquerque shine a little brighter.”

The City’s Solid Waste Management Department continues to collaborate with the Gateway Network to ensure the program remains both compassionate and effective. Participants receive consistent wages, transportation to and from job sites, and access to vital resources including case management, financial literacy training, and future employment support.

The Duke City Ambassadors have become a trusted and visible presence across the City, serving as stewards of Albuquerque’s charm and progress. Their work has inspired neighborhood groups, businesses, and residents to take part in community cleanups and beautification projects — amplifying the program’s impact far beyond its original scope.

“These are some of the hardest working people you’ll find,” said Operations Manager Deiandra Cole. “Every one of my Better Way Forward program participants are so determined to do their jobs well because they truly love being able to give something back to their community as they take steps toward a more stable future.”

The program is currently full but continues recruitment outreach at Gateway Network sites as they anticipate more slots opening soon with current participants looking forward to their own graduation.