This month we recognize Zaida Gomez and Zachary LaVergne, two Family Peer Support Specialists at the Parent/Professional Advocacy League (PPAL) as our workforce heroes for April!
In the words of Meri Viano, Associate Director, “Family Peer Support is both vital and invaluable in helping caregivers find connection, build skills, and, most importantly, experience healing while parenting children with mental health needs. Zack and Zaida consistently go above and beyond to ensure every family feels heard, supported, and able to hold onto hope. Their dedication helps families connect to the community at PPAL, strengthening that essential “village” of support. Our team is stronger because of their compassion, commitment, and the meaningful work they do every day.”
1. Tell us about your background. How did you decide to pursue a career in Human Services?
Zaida: I am originally from the Dominican Republic and I currently live in Massachusetts with my family. I work supporting families with children who face mental health challenges, helping them find resources, support, and education in their own language and in a culturally respectful way. I am especially passionate about accompanying families during difficult moments so they feel heard and not judged. My own experience as a mother influenced me to enter the human services sector. When I received my son’s diagnosis, I felt lost and without support, not knowing where to turn or what questions to ask. That motivated me to prepare myself, learn about the system, and get training so I could guide other families and make sure they do not feel alone on this journey.
Zack: My career in Human Services started back in 2007. I was working toward an Associate’s Degree in Human Services, and I was connected with a local agency, the Center of Hope, that provided day habilitation supports to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I started out as a Direct Care Worker and continued on to first become a Case Manager and then a Senior Developmental Specialist. I also served as the program’s Human Rights Officer and Restraint Instructor. I was there until 2015 when my wife and I welcomed our son and daughter home from foster care. I ended up having to leave that position to be a stay at home parent to 4 young children, 2 of whom have significant behavioral health needs. I first came to PPAL as a parent seeking support, and in 2023 I was hired as a part time Family Support Specialist. I absolutely love working for PPAL, and recently transitioned into a role as a full time Family Support Specialist. In 2024 I became a certified Community Health Worker and I am also in my last semester of college and will be graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services this May.
2. What does a typical day look like for you at your agency?
Zack: Typically I work from home 2 days a week and I am in our office 3 days a week. One of my home days is devoted to being out in the community doing outreach work. On any given day though, the majority of my time is spent supporting my families. This could be helping them find services in the community, making referrals to different providers, helping them navigate the juvenile justice system, or helping them learn about the special education system and helping with IEP issues. On Wednesday evenings I facilitate a Caregiver Connection Group online and occasionally I will facilitate our Mental Health IEP workshop for which I am the lead facilitator. I also oversee our School Problem Solving Clinics which give parents the opportunity to meet 1:1 with either myself or several other staff members who are knowledgeable about IEP’s and the special education system. I also have staff and system of care meetings scattered throughout the week. There is never a dull day at PPAL!
3. What impact do you wish to have in the community?
Zaida: I want to continue helping families feel understood, connected to resources, and more empowered so they can learn to advocate for their children. I hope to open doors for families who often feel intimidated by systems and services, so they feel confident asking questions and asserting their rights. My goal is to help build a community where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness.
4. What is your favorite professional memory?
Zack: Only one? I would have to say that my favorite professional memory was when I worked at the Center of Hope (Sorry PPAL!). We had an individual transfer from another program and I was selected to be his 1:1. Jeff was an individual on the autism spectrum and was non speaking. We spent a lot of time together and became very close. I learned a lot from him-lessons that have stayed with me to this day.
5. What does this recognition mean to you?
Zaida: It is an honor that represents the work and the trust of the families I serve. It also reminds me that every story, every phone call, and every small progress a family makes has value. This recognition encourages me to keep learning and improving so I can continue to be a strong voice for our communities.
6. This question is from our March Workforce Hero, John King: What do you find is one of the most valuable qualities of an impactful Care Coordinator?
Zack: I keep the mission of helping others at the center of the work I do everyday by remembering the people who helped me when I needed it the most. I always try to remember where I have come from and what I have come through.
Zaida: I lead with empathy, stay focused on families real needs, and make sure my work is practical, respectful and supportive.
7. Do you have a question for the next person we spotlight?
Zack: A question for the next person you spotlight would be: If you could change one thing about the various systems of care you work in, what would it be?