Empower Work Volunteer Spotlight: Jenifer Child

This post is part of our peer counselor Q&A series, which shares perspectives of our dedicated and talented volunteers about why they joined Empower Work.

Jenifer Child has volunteered with Empower Work since November, 2021 and has reached 378 hours on the text line! Her work history has included leadership roles across various tech companies all working with program management teams and organizations. Currently she is focused on creating digital art and illustrations. 

What inspired you to volunteer at Empower Work?

Volunteer opportunities were something I always had my eye on. Empower Work was one I saw mentioned in a newsletter and I knew it was something I would do one day. One day came when I was laid off from my job in March, 2021. I enjoyed the mentoring and coaching parts of my previous roles and felt Empower Work was a good match for me.

What is the impact that you feel volunteering has on the world of work?

I think it has helped people feel they aren’t alone and that they have someone to talk with. It has helped people feel connected to others who have experienced similar situations and hopefully is expanding their way of approaching and thinking about their problems.  

How has your volunteer experience at Empower Work changed your perspective on the world of work?

I think I’ve always assumed that most people’s approach to having a job and finding new roles were the same as mine.  Volunteering has helped me see that there are as many ways to have a job and find new work as there are people. Everyone has a history and perspective and no two are exactly the same.

What is your favorite aspect about being a volunteer at Empower Work?

The thought I have every time I log on. The best thing I can do is meet people where they are in order to help them.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering at Empower Work?

Do it. You’ll learn so much about yourself in the process of helping and supporting others. 

What skills did you learn in the training? What were the most valuable skills? Are you able to apply the skills that you learned in training in other aspects of your life?

I found the training so interesting and helpful. I use all of it; active listening, validate, ask more, ask deeper, generate. I use something I learned from the training in probably every interaction I have. 

Have you dealt with difficult situations at work yourself?

Yes. I was always grateful to the mentors and friends I had around me that helped me work through some sticky situations. I know that having them made a big difference for me and that was part of the draw to volunteer with Empower Work. I liked the idea that I could be a support to someone, even for a small amount of time, when they felt like they didn't have anyone else.