How . . . When . . . Where

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Joan McAllister, 2010. For this story, I did double-duty as reporter and photographer.

My latest Stanford Magazine story is up. It's a profile of Joan McAllister, class of '51, who for the last 33 years has served as writer, photographer, editor and publisher of "How . . . When . . . Where," a newsletter for New York's homeless families.

Navigating the convoluted system of social services is an overwhelming and time-consuming experience for families who need them. McAllister's free newsletter is one of the only guides out there that serves up comprehensive information in plain English. It has become such a useful tool that many public agencies in the city hand copies of the newsletter out to clients.

I had the pleasure of speaking wtih Mrs. McAllister this summer at the beautiful West Village brick townhouse where she and her family have lived for 40 years, and which also serves as the newsletter's offices. She is a lovely person, and has helped countless families through her volunteer efforts. I'm glad that this story and Stanford Magazine gave us a chance to meet.