Staff Spotlight: Sara Martínez
Welcome back to Familiar Faces Friday! Today we are introducing Sara Martínez, our Administrative Services Assistant.
When did you start working at United Way of Lake County?
I was officially hired on July 1, 2016.
What made you want to be a part of this organization?
The mission they have for education in early learning. I have worked at the College of Lake County and the education piece attracted me and even more since I was going to learn together with my two little boys.
How has United Way impacted your life?
United Way has impacted my life in the way that I see the issues that affect my community in another perspective. Helping children understand and read at higher levels gives them a better chance at a successful future. I used to help college students with their barriers going from high school to college. A great majority did not understand what was written in their academic books and now I am able, indirectly, to be part of that change earlier in their education, when they are children.
Which of United Way’s programs do you connect to most and why?
Safe and Stable Families. Not only is it because it is the program I work the most with, but also for the ability and knowledge I have acquired this past year. I learned about the programs and agencies that help my community. Also, I have built connections with community partners that help me to better serve and direct community members in the right direction.
What has been your favorite memory of working at United Way?
My favorite memory has been when I had the opportunity to volunteer in a Day of Caring to enhance a middle school. I grew up in Mexico and after high school I came to the U.S to finish my bachelors degree, so I did not have the opportunity to go into a school from 1-12 grade level here. That day I helped paint the walls of the school, and had the chance to see the classrooms as well as the conditions of the school. I felt blessed and excited to repair the damage of the facility for the kids that learn there every day. I know that the help I provided may have been indirect to the children’s learning but the satisfaction I gained from creating a better learning environment for them was awesome.
Thank you for joining us for another Familiar Faces Friday. To meet more people on staff, click here.
