Posted on September 14, 2023
Each month, we highlight a “behind-the-scenes” team member whose work supports our mission, but whose face you might not often see on our social media pages.
We’re excited to help you get to know our innovative team and the complex work we do.
So, tune in for our #TeamMemberSpotlight, where our team members share in their own words a bit about themselves!
What is your job title? Support Team Manager of the Northwest Team
How long have you been with Penn-Mar? 2 years as of this past August!
How did you get connected with Penn-Mar? I found the listing on Indeed and applied! And honestly, it was the best choice I ever made. I’ve never worked with such a tight-knit and supportive group before!
What was your previous work experience prior to Penn-Mar and how did it prepare you for your current role? Previously, I was a residential manager for a similar supports provider, but I’ve been working in supporting people in one way or another since I was 15. My last job taught me about DDA-specific supports and the administrative needs of providers; it’s a lot more than people expect, I think! Not to mention learning how to coordinate schedules at the start of the pandemic was a challenge and a lesson in thinking on my feet that I’ll never forget!
What does your work entail? Like our DSPs support our clients, I like to think I support the DSPs! I work on coordinating schedules, sharing things to do around the community, and troubleshooting any issues that come up. Plus, all that goes into the administrative side of things, like checking the DSPs logs for content and clarity, attending PCP meetings to make sure we’re all on the same page and the right track for the person supported, meeting with members of the community to make connections, and more!
What’s an average day like for you? I think one of the best parts of the job is that no two days are the same! Sometimes there are bad days, true, but I just remind myself that the next day is a completely different one and anything could happen.
What is your favorite part of your job? Every Monday when I put together our Mission Moment Monday email! I really love getting the celebrate victories, big or small, with people. Clients and coworkers alike, the best part of my day is when someone shares with me their success!
What’s one thing you wish people realized about your job? A chunk of the time, I’m stuck working at the speed of other people; I wish I could snap my fingers and get things done but sometimes, other people are what slow me down!
In another life, your career path is . . . An Oncology Pharmacist
Why is Penn-Mar’s mission important to you? Living one’s best and most authentic life is such a basic human right that is an integral part of a person’s overall well-being, and it shouldn’t be taken away from anyone simply because they need help to do it.
What’s one thing you wished the general public knew about people with IDD? That they’re people! The mindset of the public has improved leaps and bounds since Geraldo went into Willowbrook State Center with his hidden camera, but they still have a way to go to understanding that the people we support are just as complex and deserving of independence and success as everyone else!
What is your favorite quote or mantra? When nothing goes right, go left.
Any hidden talents or fun facts someone wouldn’t know about you? I have been running an ongoing Dungeons and Dragons game with friends from various parts of the country for the past 5 years.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, you’d visit . . . The Singing Steps in Zadar, Croatia.
In your spare time, you’ll be found . . . Curled up with my cats and a good book.
A book, movie, TV show, sports team, etc. you love: Pittsburgh Penguins for life!
Something fun, interesting, or meaningful about yourself if you feel like sharing/we didn’t already ask: I’m a 2nd degree blackbelt in Tae Kwon Do.