Employee of the Month: Amy Palmero
Meet EA Intake Coordinator Amy Palmero
How long have you been with EA? What roles have you had?
Six years. I started as a Social Worker in the Sacramento office and after having my son in 2019, I transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom for a bit. I was hired back with EA in the CalAIM department in 2022 and I'm now an Intake Coordinator.
Please describe a particularly memorable or impactful experience in your EA career.
I am fortunate to have had many impactful moments during my employment at EA. When I first started, if I were to be asked this question, I would immediately think of a big earth-shifting moment. However, in working as a Social Worker and now in the CalAim department, I have come to learn that every little victory for our members is impactful. Being able to process an initial referral and seeing our members transition from homelessness to being approved for housing deposit services and get into stable housing is a great feeling. Our LCMs and team work tirelessly every day to plant the seed and help our members achieve victories. I am truly grateful to be a small part of the process.
What’s been the most challenging thing about working in your field? What's been the most surprising?
I think the most challenging thing for me is understanding that not every person is ready or willing to accept help. As a social worker with EA, I always took that to heart. I would constantly think, "What can I do better?" However, as my time has evolved, I have come to learn that not every person is at the readiness stage. It is important to meet the members where they are at and remind them that help is there when and if they choose.
Do you have any advice for newcomers to social work, or those interested in pursuing it as a career?
Be confident in the work you do. Trust that you are making a difference even on the hard days. :)
Anything else you'd like to add?
I am grateful for the job that I do, and I am grateful to have a small part in the journey of so many of our members.