Employee of the Month: Leaf Van Pelt
Our featured employee this month wears a lot of hats within our organization. Currently serving as our ILP Coordinator, Plumas Commons Supervisor & Case Manager, and THP Case Manager, Leaf Van Pelt came to EA Family Services after leaving a nonprofit with some unsavory financial practices. Thankfully, the experience didn't push him away from working with nonprofits altogether, and he joined our team, finding it "a much more ethical and fun agency to work with." Read on to learn more about what he wish people knew about working in the industry, a surprising, little-known fact about him, and more!
What does your best day on the job look like?
The best days are when I see a client reach a goal or milestone, or achieve some other success toward which I was able to help guide them.
What do you wish people knew about working in your field?
This question bears the most impact on my work with my severely mentally ill populations in the Plumas Commons Program. I wish people did not align themselves with the social stigmas placed on those with mental disabilities. I work with some people burdened by horrible illnesses, like schizophrenia and psychosis, and I see how much others, in their own ignorance, fear these people. They are some of the most awesome people I've ever worked with, and I wish others could see the value they have.
How do you practice self-care?
I engage in various silliness with the little toddlers that are my progeny. I play tennis, I study insects, and I geek out with microcosms in my super rad microscope. I have a lot of friends that are pretty cool too.
What's something about you that would surprise most people?
I like insects as much as I like people (and I love most people). Also I was valedictorian of Saint Mary's College of California, class of 1999. Jeez, I'm getting old!
Anything else you'd like to add?
EA Family Services rules!