Employee of the Month: Rayna Harkness

Meet EA Office Manager Rayna Harkness

How long have you been with EA? What roles have you had? 

25 years. I worked in Group Homes before they were STRTPs, and was Office Manager in the Susanville office for 12 years. I maintain the yard and clean the office. I have assisted other offices (mainly Eureka) with training new OM's, and have helped out our Quincy office by answering phones and filing.

What originally made you want to work with EA?

My mother-in-law had two group homes: Sabl Arbor and the Honor House. I started by helping with the files and then later worked directly with the clients.

Describe what your best day on the job looks like.

My best day at the office is when I can have a visit with a foster parent or client face-to-face in my office. Since OMs don't get out much to see our families, it is such a treat when they stop in. The toothless smiles from the kids are the best.

What do you wish people knew about working in your field?

When you work in this field, it is truly not the money that keeps you doing your job day to day. Having the opportunity to help a child and a family is a privilege! Not all people are able to experience that. I love my job! Being a worker bee and being behind the scenes is what I was blessed to be doing.

How do you practice self care?

I enjoy spending time with my husband. We have 3 beautiful granddaughters: Mattalynn, Whitney, and Amelia. Truth be told... a sleepover with Mattalynn and Whitney, who are both 2, makes me realize I am not in my 20s anymore. I love looking at life the way they see it... it is so simplified! They make me laugh, too. And laughter is good for the soul. I also enjoy gardening and having a family dinner on Sundays with my kids, their spouses, and of course, the little people.

What's a hidden talent you have, or something about yourself that would surprise most people?

I love to make cheesecakes. Otherwise, I prefer not to bake. But I do love to cook.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I am very fortunate to be able to work with a great group of people with the same mindset to serve others.