Isabel:
What is your position and how long have you been with FCA
I am currently the Senior Staff associate of the ASPIRE High School program but my time with FCA started in the summer of 2016 when I became an intern for the ASPIRE Summer program for the middle school component. Since then, I have had different roles at FCA. I went from being an intern to a volunteer to a summer curriculum specialist at ASPIRE, to a MOMS program home visitor, and eventually returned to ASPIRE in the high school program.
Why do you think FCA’s work is integral for the community
FCA works daily to create connections and provide resources to people who need them the most. The organization’s work in the community has always put an emphasis on the importance of human relationships. FCA’s staff have worked to empower hundreds of people in the community and give them the tools they need to get through some of life’s most difficult challenges.
What about your work for FCA are you most proud of and why
I am most proud of my work with our seniors in the high school program. Since ASPIRE is a 7-year program, I have had the privilege of seeing many students grow from their transition into middle school all the way to the time they walk across the stage in high school to receive their diplomas. In the high school program, we strive to teach our clients the life skills they need to be successful and independent adults. We also work with them throughout the entire college application process. Seeing our clients grow up to become amazing young adults prepared to take on the world and go off to college is the most rewarding part of my work at FCA.
Cynthia
What is your position and how long have you been with FCA
I am a Mental Health Counselor for IICAPS and have been working with FCA for 5 months.
Why do you think FCA’s work is integral for the community
FCA is an amazing support system for so many families. For many years social and emotional health were put on the back burner. FCA and our amazing team has magnified the importance of social/emotional stability in our community and given all individuals of all ages the opportunity to revitalize their lives!
What about your work for FCA are you most proud of and why
My job as mental health counselor for IICAPS is so rewarding. Many families at the beginning of treatment are dealing with a crisis and are all on their own. Being that person that swoops in and gives them that empathy, compassion, and support makes me feel accomplished every day. In addition, seeing the child’s progress, along with their family, ultimately feels as though I am fixing a broken foundation, and building a better future for them. Nothing is more fulfilling and prideful than that! I am so grateful for FCA for giving me this experience where I can learn and grow as an individual, while also making a difference in our community.
