Gateway Community Services - Jen Loforese
|
Jen Loforese
|
|
Coordinator, Violence Intervention and Prevention Project
|
|
Staff member since January 2008
|
Michigan State University
|
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
Specialization in Peace and Social Justice
Bachelor of Arts, Interdisciplinary Arts and Humanities
Specialization in Women, Gender and Social Justice
|
Why I decided to go into social work:
I have had two lives. In my first life my career provided both monetary and employment security, a set schedule, and excellent benefits. My job title and specifications, however, offered me little opportunity to affect positive change. I worked directly with people that society had forgotten. Most were marginalized by race, poverty, lack of education, and lack of opportunity. Many had lived a life inundated with violence, both as victim and as perpetrator. Each day that I went in to work I felt as though my hands were tied.
My second life began as I walked away from my first life. I looked for a career that would allow me to serve people in many of the same circumstances as my previous job, but with the intention of truly being able to address the needs of those I encountered. The field of social work and non-profits was a natural fit for this goal. Each day I am working to make change, and best of all, my hands no longer feel tied.
The most rewarding thing about working at Gateway:
I have the best job in the world! I get to serve young people. We talk about life, we make art, we work through feelings, and we teach each other new ways to make positive changes in ourselves, our homes, community, and our world. AND I get smiles and hugs on a daily basis!
|
Return to Staff Profiles
|
|
|
