This August, we honor Tamsin McNally, a Developmental Specialist at Opportunity Works in Newburyport.
1. Tell us about your background. How did you decide to pursue a career in human services?
It was never actually my plan to get into this field! I was working in manufacturing for a company called Brush Wellman and my boss asked me if I would supervise three people receiving supports from Opportunity Works while they came in to work for/with us. I guess my boss thought I was the right person for the job. It took a while for them to settle in and find the right fit, but that was initially how I was exposed to the field.
Ultimately, I was burnt out working as a Team Leader and working three shifts, plus, I had a young family. I left there and worked as a kitchen lady in my son’s school and started a second shift at Dunkin’ Donuts. My old boss reached out and said there was a need for a production specialist at Opportunity Works. I interviewed and was hired, and I’ve been here for 24 years! I had great role models, one key person being Linda Shaktman. I had loved manufacturing and it was never my intention to work in this field.
I have worked in employment supports as well as working with people in community-based programming, day habilitation and I have worked with people with more significant, specialized needs.
2. What does a typical day look like for you at your organization?
I come in and I get ready for the day. I spend a lot of time on the following week’s schedule, looking for new activities and preparing for the following week. I find I like to give myself a lot of time to prepare. On a daily basis, I set up everyone’s spaces with whatever it is I know they want to do when they arrive to program. Once everyone starts arriving, I greet them and help get them situated, then we start morning meeting. That is a lot of fun, I think it’s my favorite part of the day because they not only participate in it, but they lead it.
Then we work on different goals throughout the day and some of the goals I even try and incorporate into morning meeting. You can work on communication, socialization and so much more. We are always trying to do what they like to do. Unfortunately, not everyone is going to participate, but we try our best to make it fun and exciting.
During lunch time, I’m busy ensuring everyone’s needs are met. I lead a large walking group every day in the afternoon after lunch. That is very important to me. What means the most to me is getting everyone to remain as independent as possible. I love the group that I have, and I have found a very special connection working with people diagnosed with Down Syndrome. If the people I am supporting have a good day, I have a good day!
3. What is your favorite professional memory?
When Opportunity Works believed in me enough to give me the pleasure of working with the folks I have now. This has helped me to believe in myself. I currently run a program room specifically designed for people aging with the dual diagnoses of down syndrome and dementia. I have taken many trainings and am always looking to further my education in this area.
4. This question is from our July Workforce Hero, Constance Harris: What person or experience has had the greatest influence on the way you serve others, and how has that shaped the professional you are today?
A person supported who was in our specialized program. His name is Mickey and he is a truly unique person. He is non-verbal and communicated differently than most people I have ever met. He had his challenging days, but for some reason we just clicked. His smile just made my day and even when he was having a bad day, it would still end up a good day. He helped me learn that behaviors are actually their way of letting you know something isn’t right in their world I learned patience from him.
5. Do you have a question for the next person we spotlight?
If you could go back to the beginning of your career, is there anything you would have done differently? If so, why?
A heartfelt thank you to Tamsin and every human service worker across Massachusetts! The compassion, hope, and dedication you bring to your work each day transforms lives and strengthens our communities. Your efforts don’t go unnoticed—we’re incredibly grateful for all you do. Have someone you’d like to nominate a Workforce Hero? Email ilee@providers.org
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