I would like to think of myself as a self-directed individual who can accomplish whatever goals I tend to set for myself. I believe that others too, with support can identify and accomplish the goals they seek for themselves. My background and upbringing have been a major contributing factor for who I am. I was born in the Azores, Portugal, in the Isle of Santa Maria. I attended school and completed fourth grade (what was required at the time) at age ten, therefore I was done with school. Due to government policy changes I had to return to school after considerable time off. I then came to the USA with my family to live in the Boston Area. I did not speak any English. I attended two grammar schools, then attended Rindge and Latin School in Cambridge where I graduated from in 1980. During this time, I had 3 jobs as an adolescent. I also participated in various programs including an overnight summer program through MIT. I was accepted to Boston College where I earned an undergraduate degree in 1984. In my Jr. year at college, I volunteered as a Mentor through the Department of Children and Families, working with two adolescents from my community who were involved with the system. I was eventually hired in 1984. Although I worked full time at DCF I maintained other jobs as well. For instance, I drove Limo’s, worked in a bakery, and delivered newspapers. I earned a master’s degree in social work from Salem State in 1996. I have attended many training courses during my career. I have held various roles, as a Social Worker, Supervisor, Student Mentor, Area Program Manager and most recently area clinical manager. In my last role I supported the operation of an area office. During my tenure, forty plus years, I have had the privilege to work with many special projects that included my office, statewide and the New England States. I have worked on many kinds of cases, involving a multitude of concerns. My work has been highly recognized. I pride myself in organizing individuals to brainstorm, to identify an issue and provide support to resolve the issue. I am mindful that trauma looks different for everyone.
During my years, including as a teen, due to my dad being very ill, and my sister being diagnosed with Severe Seizures D/O, I was often the person in the family who advocated for them. I was their translator, took them to appointments, and made sure their needs were met. I was exposed to many systems and had to learn to navigate them. I have the experience of family members being involved in the social service system and the complications associated with that. I have raised my own family, supporting my children. They are now successful adults.
I believe in self-care. For me, it is maintaining a work life balance. I have always been heavily involved in sports and have played hockey and soccer most of my life and have also coached many different levels.
Now, I find myself retired from the major job that I have had and want to share my knowledge, wisdom, and life experience, both by helping develop people in the field of social services as well as supporting individuals and families with whatever struggles.