Welfare Pluralism Through Homelessness Prevention: An Interview with Katelyn Ravensbergen, MSW

by Brad Forenza, MSW, PhD

Katelyn Ravensbergen

Katelyn Ravensbergen, MSW

     Welfare pluralism refers to the mixed economy of social welfare - the myriad sectors through which consumers encounter services. Specifically, this includes the public (governmental) sector, private (for-profit) sector, and voluntary (typically nonprofit) sector. Welfare pluralism compels each sector to work cohesively, in the best interest of responding to human need. Analyzing a policy or issue area through the lens of welfare pluralism investigates the intersection of these three service streams, and the ways in which they counterbalance the effects of a free market. 

     In the corresponding interview, think about the ways in which Ms. Katelyn Ravensbergen, MSW (Program Director for Housing and Community Development), facilitates continuous dialogue among these sectors, in the best interest of individuals experiencing-- or at risk of experiencing-- homelessness and housing insecurity in Hudson County, New Jersey.

     Listen to the interview here:

Brad Forenza, MSW, PhD, is an associate professor at Montclair State University and a recognized scholar of social policy. His research foci pertain to youth development, primary prevention, and civic engagement. His academic career is accentuated by direct social work practice at youth and family development agencies, program evaluation for clients in the human services, and public policy analysis at the state and federal levels. He regularly publishes and presents his work in national and international forums. His original, public scholarship also extends to the organization of practice-oriented events and panels, the production of documentary film and a social welfare podcast, and the authorship of practitioner interviews and many policy speeches.