How did you discover your passion for what you do?
Truthfully, I never could have imagined myself in my current role, though I’ve always had a huge heart for children and knew that I would work in a position that helps to better the lives of others. I did not know anything about foster care and child welfare when I was asked to apply for a position in my company. As I began to learn the stories of the children that we serve, I saw so many of my own past experiences reflected in their present struggles. There is the misconception that children in foster care are bad kids, when in reality many may have had terrible things done to them by those they love and trust most in this world. I felt God calling me to work towards changing that mindset and public perception and felt passionate about helping find children loving foster parents and, when needed, adoptive families. No child deserves to live in fear.
Who is your mentor, and how did he/she shape your career?
My boss has been an incredible mentor from the moment we first began working together. I joke and call her my “work mom,” but she really has become an instrumental figure in my life. My background is not in communications, so there was a large learning curve I overcame to reach my current level of knowledge and expertise, and it’s all because of her patience and flexibility I was able to do so. Half of what I do was not originally in my job description, but she allows me to explore my interests and push boundaries to see how I can better serve our children and families. Because of this, my skillset has expanded, and I’ve become a true “Jane of all trades.” Her constant encouragement is a much needed reminder that I am capable, competent and have a bright path ahead.
What words of wisdom do you live by?
“Let someone else be the one who tells you ‛no.’” As women, I think we easily underestimate ourselves and self-worth. We decide for ourselves that there’s no point in asking for that raise because we won’t get it or apply for that job because we aren’t qualified. Just do it! We are our own best advocates. Even worse than hearing a “no” is not even giving ourselves a chance to hear “yes”!
