Employee of the Month: Wendy Gonzalez
We're pleased to announce that Wendy Gonzalez, one of our wonderful social workers, is our featured Employee of the Month! She recently took some time out of her busy day to share what led her to a career with EA Family Services, tips for practicing self-care, and more!
What drove your interest in working with EA?
What drew me in initially was the small family feel. I love that I can think outside the box and my supervisor and colleagues will trust me to make the best decision.
What does your best day on the job look like?
Things are running smoothly, the children are receiving wonderful care, and I've been able to cross a lot of items off my to-do list.
What do you wish people knew about working in your field?
It can be a difficult industry. There are ebbs and flows throughout any given year, and sometimes you'll have days where everything is going wrong. But on days when a child has a breakthrough or meets a goal, and you see the smile on their face, that's what makes it all worth it.
How do you practice self-care?
I love being outdoors, especially going hiking around Lake County or the surrounding areas with my husband and fur babies (my dogs). I also love participating in tribal dances and drumming the huehuetl (grandfather drum), or exercising.
What's something about you that would surprise people?
I think most people would be surprised that I work on ceremonial regalia for tribal dancers. Many of these ceremonial pieces will be passed down from generation to generation, and I really enjoy working on them.