By Morgan Banta-Ryan
Before Amanda came to work at Berkshire County Arc, she worked in an administrative position at a mental health clinic. The longer she worked there, the more she realized she wanted to work directly with the people who visited the clinic. While finishing her degree, she worked in residential support for a different agency, then decided to pursue a management position at BCArc, before returning to residential work last year.
After 10 years in the field of human services, Amanda has transitioned to Administrative Assistant- Residential Services based in her hometown of Westfield. When talking about her new role, Amanda says she is excited to be able to “focus on helping in a different capacity,” such as visiting several BCArc houses to support their backend work.
She is most proud of “consistently putting out the best I have to offer” in any position or situation she is involved with.
Despite moving on to a new role, some of Amanda’s best memories come from working directly with individuals in the houses. One memory that stands out: The staff at the College Highway house decided to host a surf n’ turf night for the individuals living there. Amanda reminisced about how excited everyone felt, calling it “a really special thing,” noting the good food and good company.
When reflecting on her 10-plus years in the field, Amanda says she is most proud of “consistently putting out the best I have to offer” in any position or situation she is involved with.
