How did you get started at UWWF and why did you want to work here?
I was hired as a temporary employee through a staffing agency to assist with accounts receivable. A few months in I was offered a permanent position as an Administrative Assistant. I wanted to work here when I found out that the agencies that assisted my family of 6 when we were in crisis were funded by United Way through their community investment process. I wanted to play a part in helping families in their time of need like my family was helped.
What was UWWF like 28 years ago? How was the mission similar or different?
United Way staff and programs were a little smaller in 1998! The communities’ needs were different as well. The mission of United Way has always been about improving the lives of individuals and their families. We are still focused on that work today and have grown our programs to meet the needs of our community. I was excited when we expanded our mission to include Santa Rosa County as I lived in the community for a while and have family that lives there.
What does your role as Director of Operations look like on a typical day, and what are some of the things you oversee that people may not realize?
I start my day by corresponding with supervisors and managers on a variety of items; training of staff, grant procedures as it relates to staffing, and advising on new positions and on other needs they may have. I meet with the Office Coordinator and Disaster & Emergency Services Coordinator to ensure employees’ needs are met and to ensure we have a safe place to work. I also work with the leadership team on vendor proposals, the strategic plan and communicate with board members. Outside of my Operations role, some may not realize that I serve as the support staff to the CEO and the UWWF board of directors and serve as the staff liaison for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program.
How does your work behind the scenes help UWWF serve the community more effectively?
I believe having trust in the community helps us be more effective. I do this in my role by ensuring we are using best practices for recruiting and hiring, creating policies and procedure, in supervision of our employees and by being responsive to those inside and outside of the organization.
What is one part of your job that you feel has the biggest impact on our organization and the people we serve?
The biggest impact I think I have is serving as one of the Leadership Team. Human resources is a big part of an organization, and I am proud to say UWWF understands that. I have had impact on creating our strategic plan and helping to build an organization where people want to work.
You’ve held several roles at United Way over 28 years. How has your perspective on the organization and its mission changed over that time?
My perspective when I first started was “we do good work” and I was proud of that but didn’t fully realize how our mission affected the people we serve. Over time, I gained a much deeper appreciation for the work we do and feel more connected to the organization and in the impact we are making.
What is one moment, accomplishment or change that you’re especially proud to have been part of?
Oh Wow! I take pride in the fact that we have created a culture at UWWF where employees enjoy coming to work and being part of our organization.
UWWF is coming up on its 33rd Day of Caring this November. You've been here for so many of them—what was your first Day of Caring like? Is there one DOC that stood out more than the others?
My first Day of Caring was very exciting! We kicked off with a breakfast for all volunteers! I do not have one that stood out, but what has resonated with me is the partnerships built between the volunteer organizations and the non-profits and schools that last far beyond this one day.
When you think about United Way’s mission of creating a stronger community, what does that mission mean to you personally?
To me it means businesses, non-profits, and local leaders working together to not just give a person or family assistance for the one emergency or need they have at one moment in time. It’s providing them with the tools and resources to improve their situation so they are better prepared to overcome other obstacles that may come their way.
Outside of work, what is something that brings you joy or helps you recharge?
I have two precious grandchildren that bring me joy and laughter! When I am not with them, I drag my husband on mini vacations. 😊