The Caring Force is pleased to announce that our December TCF Hero Spotlight honoree is Patricia Brown, BA, Program Coordinator of the Family Support Program at MLK Jr. Family Services.
1. Tell us about your background. How did you decide to pursue a career in human services?
I come from a family that was known for their commitment to help other families. My grandmother was my idol for pursuing a career in the helping profession. She was a foster mother for many years. She was an emergency placement provider and had many children stay in her home. I was a young girl during that time, I was able to interact with many of the children that stayed in her home. After witnessing first-hand the pain that many of the children went through, I came to realize as a young girl that I wanted to be in a position where I could be of help to some young women that have been through rough times in their lives.
2. What is your favorite professional memory?
I come from a family that was known for their commitment to help other families. My grandmother was my idol for pursuing a career in the helping profession. She was a foster mother for many years. She was an emergency placement provider and had many children stay in her home. I was a young girl during that time, I was able to interact with many of the children that stayed in her home. After witnessing first-hand the pain that many of the children went through, I came to realize as a young girl that I wanted to be in a position where I could be of help to some young women that have been through rough times in their lives.
I would have to say during the pandemic when we delivered gift baskets to our parents who were stressed at home with children that were not in school due to the pandemic. It was such an overwhelming time, and that one gift basket went such a long way with appreciation from our consumers. Just the thought of our agency thinking about them during the pandemic was very much appreciated, on so many levels.
3. The pandemic has been ongoing for more than a year. How have you coped with its challenges?
The pandemic has been very challenging. With my strong belief in GOD and MLKFS having that same spiritual energy, it made my work with our consumers during this very challenging time very rewarding. To work for such a great agency with great leadership and committed co-workers during this challenging time, has made me more grateful for the life I am living.
4. This question is from our November 2021 TCF Hero Spotlight, Noelia Martinez: What is the best professional advice someone has given you?
Primarily, you need to have a passion for helping people. If one does not possess an innate desire to be a professional helper, working in this field is not a vocation that one should pursue.
5. Do you have a question for the next person we spotlight?
What are you most proud of in terms of accomplishments in your professional work life?
Thank you so much to Patricia and all of our wonderful human services workers who bring joy and passion to work every day! We are so thankful for your efforts and for making the Commonwealth a better place.
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