Name: Katherine
Town of Residence: Wayland
How long have you been working for Mass211? 1.5 years
What is your role at Mass211? Information and Referral specialist
What is a typical day like for you at Mass211? Answering calls non-stop, particularly since the pandemic began. I’m surrounded by incredibly dedicated and supportive colleagues, as well as supervisors.
What is your favorite part of working for Mass211? I believe the work we do is absolutely essential - taking calls and connecting people with critical resources across the state. At this time in our country, you can literally hear the relief in someone's voice when they connect with a live person on the phone. Knowing that they're not alone, and that Mass211 call takers will do their best to support them, makes such a difference. I love being able to say, "call us anytime; everyone who answers the phone is wonderful, and we're here 24/7."
What do you like to do outside of work? I also work as a Family Self Sufficiency Coordinator for a housing authority, and I really enjoy that work also. Outside of work, I enjoy being with family and friends (outside, safely!), taking walks with my dog, reading good fiction, and listening to music.
Do you do something to give back to your community? If so, can you tell us about it? My professional career has focused on affordable housing and homelessness, so I continue to do what I can to support both causes. I am on the Executive Committee of Friends of Boston's Homeless (fobh.org), and chair the Wayland Housing Partnership, a committee that advocates for affordable housing.
Do you have any other comments you would like to add? Just want to add my thanks and appreciation for the wonderful staff and administrators at Mass211!