A Day in the Life at Center for Hope
Welcome to A Day in the Life at Center for Hope, a blog series highlighting the dedicated professionals who support individuals and families affected by trauma, violence and loss. Center for Hope (CFH) serves as a beacon for those facing difficult times, offering essential advocacy, counseling and resources. In this series, we’ll explore the work and perspectives of those who contribute to CFH’s mission daily.
Today, we meet Jess, the center's medical clinic coordinator and practice supervisor. She shares an inside look at her role, the mission that fuels her work and the passions that bring her joy beyond the office.
Q1. Who are you, and what do you do at Center for Hope?
A. My name is Jess, and I serve as the medical clinic coordinator and practice supervisor at Center for Hope. In this role, I provide support to children and teens during medical exams.
We see two types of patients: children and teens entering foster care for their five-day initial health check-ups and children and teens for forensic medical exams for those who have experienced sexual or physical abuse. I assist our medical providers during these exams, manage scheduling and handle various administrative tasks. My responsibilities range from taking vital signs to being the emotional support hand holder for teens getting blood draws.
Q2. What do you enjoy most about your work in the medical clinic?
A. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to support families, children and teens during some of the most challenging times in their lives. Often, we see children entering foster care with little to no clothing or personal hygiene items. We can provide them with essential supplies to help them through the next few days, along with comforting items like stuffed animals and books. One of my favorite moments is when a child or teen arrives feeling upset and angry, but by the end of their visit, they leave with a smile and laughter. Sometimes, kids don’t even want to leave after spending time in the playroom!
Q3. What is one thing you want people to take away from when they come to CFH?
A. I want people to leave knowing they are not alone during difficult times. We strive to make families, children and teens feel welcomed and supported when they come to Center for Hope. We want everyone to know that they are in a place where people genuinely care about them.
Q4. What is something interesting about you?
I’m a big fan of trashy reality TV and True Crime shows! I also enjoy horror movies, anime and reading thriller and fantasy books. I love making people laugh, so my office is filled with memes, and I’m always trying to get kids to laugh or at least smile by talking about things they enjoy. Some will refer to me as the resident “spooky cat lady” of the office.
Are you inspired by Jess's story? Join us on this journey to help families find strength in their most difficult times. Learn more about Center for Hope and how you can make a difference.