Employee of the Month: Yoana Andrade, Case Manager
How long have you been with EA? What roles have you had? 
One year. The roles I have had while working with EA have included being a mentor to the homeless adults that Bakersfield works with, and to our THP youth. I have also taken roles of being a friend or family member of my clients because unfortunately sometimes, I am all they have. I have also transported some clients because they needed it for emergencies.
What originally made you want to work with EA?
Working with children and young adults is something I love to do. I used to be an ABA therapist where I worked one-on-one with children who were on the spectrum. When I saw EA was hiring to work one-on-one with young adults, I immediately applied and realized this was an age group I love working with.
Describe what your best day on the job looks like:
I love going into the office, and seeing how my week is going to play out. It's always great when my supervisor comes to town because I feel more productive and she brings a safe space to the office. I also love meeting my clients when they are happy and doing great.
What do you wish people knew about working in your field?
I wish they knew that mental health comes in all forms. I have gotten mean remarks from certain property managers, and just others in general about my clients—calling them "crazy people", "troubled", etc.—just because they are in the system. I feel so sad when my clients are not given a chance by others because of their mental health or the foster care system.
How do you practice self care?
I love to go to the gym Monday-Friday to get all my emotions out that have built up throughout the day. I also love to read and sleep. I go out with my friends and family on the weekends to get ready for the work week.
What's a hidden talent you have, or something about yourself that would surprise most people?
Honestly, I do not think I have a hidden talent, but I do love to take photos of landscapes and some of my photos have surprised people.