When Tish Inong joined Friends In Deed nearly three years ago, she stepped into a role that was, in her words, “a blank canvas.” Today, as the Director of Street Outreach and Housing, she has transformed that canvas into a thriving program that supports some of Pasadena’s most vulnerable residents.
Tish oversees a dynamic team of outreach workers, housing navigators, and an intensive case manager—while also managing the street outreach budget and program design. In addition, she serves as the MSW field instructor and the clinical supervisor for staff pursuing licensure as Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW). Her leadership is shaped by both her professional expertise and personal experiences.
Tish’s passion for social work stems from a deep well of empathy and lived experience. As a child, she experienced housing instability firsthand, spending long stretches living in motels with her family. Those experiences fueled her belief that housing is a human right—a foundational need that enables individuals to thrive in every other aspect of life.
Her journey began in college, where a sociology class sparked her interest in systemic social issues. Volunteer work soon became a cornerstone of her life, from assisting at a food bank to advocating for working-class individuals during a fellowship with CLUE (Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice). These experiences solidified her commitment to community-facing work and advocacy.
After earning a Master’s in Public Administration, Tish pursued a Master’s in Social Work, intentionally choosing internships and fellowships that immersed her in homeless services and social justice. She worked with individuals with disabilities, supported labor campaigns, and even attended church services on Skid Row to better understand the challenges facing unhoused communities.
When a colleague shared the job opening at Friends In Deed, Tish saw it as an opportunity to step into a more advanced leadership role while staying connected to the direct, hands-on work she loves. “I wasn’t sure if anything would come of it,” she admits, “but I’m so glad I did.”
At Friends In Deed, Tish has found a workplace culture that aligns with her values. She appreciates the organization’s holistic approach to services and its dedication to channeling resources directly into programs that make a tangible difference. “Even though we’re a small organization, the impact we have is amazing,” she says.
Tish also values the sense of community among her colleagues. “It’s an enjoyable place to work, and that matters a lot,” she says. “When you’re doing work that’s challenging and often adjacent to trauma, having a supportive work environment is really important.”
Beyond her work, Tish is passionate about social justice and animal rights. A long-time vegan, she and her husband lead the Pasadena Vegans Group, promoting compassionate living.
Through her leadership, Tish continues to shape Friends In Deed—and the lives of those it serves.