How did you first get involved with the Quality Council and The Arc?
I was looking for a job and a friend of mine who was a council member recommended I apply for the coordinator position for the MRQC. She mentioned the council hadn’t hired anyone yet and that my previous job experiences would work in my favor for being a strong application candidate. I used to work providing benefits coaching and housing navigation services. I think my direct service experience was deemed useful to the council because I had witnessed the many challenges people with disabilities endure when trying to obtain basic services to improve their quality of life.
What people appreciate about me:
I am appreciated for my work ethic. I work hard and try to fulfill the things I say I will do, or have been asked to do. I am appreciated for being a genuine and honest person. I try to keep it real and freely admit to things I don’t know, mistakes I’ve made and things I find challenging…however, just because I find things challenging doesn’t mean I don’t try to tackle them. I think it worthwhile to broaden one’s horizons and gain more knowledge and skills, even if one doesn’t reach master level. I don’t think people should expect to reach master level at everything they do. However, if they don’t try they won’t find how far they can go. To illustrate my point, my former co-worker was impressed when I showed her my still life watercolors. Having a physical disability, many people assume I am not capable of producing such detailed pictures. I like to think, although I’m never going to become a world renowned artist, I can still partake in such activities to satisfy my own self-growth and share mutual interests with others. Lastly, I am appreciated for my sense of humor and patience. I try not to make a mountain out of a molehill especially when it creates unnecessary drama. More laughter and less drama is how I roll!
What is most important to me:
When it comes to work, one thing that is important to me is having a sense of accomplishment. I am motivated knowing that my job no matter how big or small contributes to the overall improvement of people’s well-being. Another thing that is important to me is to acknowledge and show appreciation towards your fellow co-workers especially the ones you felt really helped you out. Many jobs can be challenging, but if you have co-workers that do their part and perhaps beyond, it can make tasks so much less overwhelming, I try to make a habit of thanking people even if I don’t always directly work with them. I think it is important to show that everyone contributes to our society.
