Kirk Gibson

Background

About Kirk Gibson

Hi! I'm Kirk and I work as the Systems and Impact Reporting Manager at Giving Kitchen, where we provide emergency financial assistance to food service workers facing an unexpected crisis. I completed my Masters in Social Work at Georgia State where I researched service industry labor, chronic poverty,(inter-)generational wealth, and competed a major project for the Office of the Capital Defender on the effect of childhood lead poisoning on brain development and prosocial behavor. At Giving Kitchen, I previously worked as a case manager but currently assist all teams with impact reporting, including statistical analyses of financial intervention on psychometric outcomes (depression, anxiety, and economic self-sufficiency). For example, we've found statistically significant declines in negative mental health outcomes from one-time financial assistance, as well as 73% of clients reporting that financial assistance prevented them from experiencing eviction. Through a project with students from Georgia Tech, we found that the average dollar given to Giving Kitchen saves $1.65 in late fees, court costs, increased utilization of social services, and more. Through program evaluations and application improvements, we have also cut the time of a financial assistance award by 75%. I love working in restaurants and have passed my Certified Sommelier and Certified Sake Advisor exams. I'm currently deciding which exam to throw myself into next!