I’m Proof That Passion Is Just as Powerful as Position
By Pamela Saunders, Operations Manager
I consider myself crafty. Not artistic, but crafty. There’s a big difference. If you see me reading on the beach it won’t be a romance novel but rather a book on the art of beading or an encyclopedia of crochet stitches. I’m interested in all of it; I love to learn new things and find it relaxing. My sewing machine and my Cricut machine are two of my most prized possessions.
Then there is my work at Child Focus, where each staff member values the organization, its mission, and the children and families we serve. I don’t hold a degree in social work. I’m not an attorney. I’m not the executive director or an advocacy supervisor working directly with our advocates who are in the field serving children. Yet, I help this organization thrive in the many ways I am able, and the goal is always to make the workplace even more pleasant, events even more fun, and our beloved CASA volunteers feel even more special. That’s MY thing. Whether machine-embroidering logos on clothing, making staff t-shirts, or creating table arrangements and lottery trees, I use my craftiness to make the serious and often difficult work done here at Child Focus easier to endure. (And you can, too!)
In fact, we also have several volunteer advocates who grace us with their crafty talents. Thank you, Catherine Murray and Andrea Grunau, for your beautiful quilts – they become treasured possessions of our CASA children. Thank you to Rich Schaeffer – husband of staffer Michelle – for his woodworking creations. Whether CASA-emblazoned tables, Open Door Store shelving in our Union County location, or expansive wall cubbies that aid in item distribution to caseworkers or advocates, and provide important organization, his creations give a sense of pride in our workspaces and places for staff and advocates to meet, discuss difficult issues, and formulate positive responses.
So if you’re harboring a skill, hobby, or obsession you think could impact our organization and the work we do in a positive way – whether big or small – please consider pairing that special thing YOU love and do, with Child Focus and the work WE love and do together: ensuring every child and family we work with is seen, heard, advocated for, and supported in whatever way they need. Don’t be shy; bring your passion to our welcoming table, and you will make something special happen, too. Our needs are always evolving, and right now we're especially looking for:
Volunteers to join our fundraising committee (contact Courtney at courtney@childfocusnj.org or 973-832-4002), and
Community members to lead clothing drives for our Open Door Store, especially for new teen clothing. Youth in foster care can “shop” for free at our Wayne or Elizabeth locations, choosing new clothes, essentials, and more, supporting both their needs and sense of self. Questions about store needs? Contact me at Pam@childfocusnj.org or 973-832-4002.