Meet Heather
What is your favorite memory in your role at The Giving Barn? My most memorable moment at the barn was when Tonya got mud sprayed all over her face when she tried to push the barn truck out, she buried that thing. On a serious note though, it was this past Christmas when our kids got very involved in our Christmas sponsorship. They pulled some long days and late nights and never complained and has huge smiles on their faces the whole time.
What is a myth about poverty you would like to dispel? I would love to dispel the poverty myth that if you’re not “officially” poor, you’re doing ok in our country. Living pay check to pay check is stressful and a $300 unexpected expense could be what it takes to push someone from not being “officially” poor into poverty. We need as many resources as we can to keep people out of poverty. What is your super power? I think my superpower is that I’m very good at listening and I’m extremely patient.
What is the biggest challenge you face in this role? The biggest challenge I face volunteering is having the time I would like to give for it, because it really does deserve all of my effort, but life can be so busy. I can be very hard on myself when I can’t give as much time as I would like to volunteering.
What is something your community doesn't know? My community might be shocked to know that I’m in the Mexican mafia, just kidding. I’m a scientist, an environmentalist and a vegetarian. What compelled you to join the barn? I’m a yes person, so when Amanda asked me to join her I just naturally said yes. I will help anyone who asks me, if it is in my means to do so. What I did not anticipate was falling in love with the work, the people and how full it would make my heart. I’m humbled and honored to be able to help others ease just a little bit of their daily stress and worries.