By Nicole Lemire
Maureen Marion has found a home away from home and a new sense of purpose through her job at BCArc.
Maureen started at BCArc in late 2019 working in the Human Resources department of the Westfield office. She worked exclusively in HR for a year, but in her second year began picking up relief shifts at various BCArc brain injury homes throughout Pioneer Valley. Before this, she had never worked directly with individuals with disabilities, but quickly grew to enjoy it. Recently, she was promoted to Senior HR Specialist, a position which she is already loving.
Picking up relief shifts has given Maureen a more flexible schedule, as in addition to working full-time, she is also pursuing a college degree and is a mother of five children. Typically, Maureen will pick up three relief shifts each week, in whichever house needs additional help.
She is also pursuing a college degree and is a mother of five children.
“I love the flexibility of relief, it has been a lifesaver for me,” Maureen said. “I like having control over my balance of time. I absolutely love both of my positions, HR and direct care.”
Maureen feels that working directly with individuals has also been beneficial to her work in Human Resources, as it has allowed her to understand the “big picture” of BCArc as an agency.
Her relief work has not only helped her with time management, but has been very personally fulfilling. She has grown close with many of the individuals, particularly the ladies at College Highway, which is the home that she most frequently works at.
“It sounds cliche, but when people talk about BCArc houses feeling like home, it really is the truth,” she said. “I’ve built such great relationships with the individuals at all the homes I’ve gone to, they’re all just amazing. On a personal level, it’s just been very rewarding, and has brought extra purpose to my life.”
Maureen was named one of BCArc’s Employees of the Quarter this past quarter, an award meant to recognize staff members who have gone above and beyond in their position. She said that this came as a complete shock to her, and that it feels amazing to have her hard work be appreciated.
“Maureen took it upon herself to go above and beyond with the Westfield office move,” said the staff member who nominated Maureen for the award. “She is always willing to do whatever is asked of her. She also picks up shifts regularly with BI on evenings and weekends.”
“The purpose that this job gives me is beyond any paycheck or award,” Maureen said.
