Meet Tammy Chandler
Tammy Chandler is a human resources generalist at the Center of Hope and has been on the staff for 12 years. We asked Tammy to share some of her thoughts about her time at the Center.
Please describe your role at the Center. I wear lots of hats but I enjoy being busy! You may see me running around with transportation or nursing, but my main role is Human Resources. I teach CPR and First Aid, pass meds, make sure assessments are completed and contact homes when needed. I help out wherever necessary in transportation; whether it be pulling things together for grants, helping with moving vehicles back and forth from the mechanic or making sure runs are covered. In Human Resources, I like to listen to all of our staff and what they have to share, I provide information regarding benefits, make sure evaluations are completed in a timely manner, set up training, planning events for the staff and participants, coordinating Staff Development Day, and so much more. I even find time to fit in two dance classes that are so much fun!
Why did you choose this field? I felt like this field chose me way back in 2007. I heard about this fun job and I started working as a “hab aide” years ago. The hours fit my school schedule and it was history from there. Way back then, I was going to school to work with animals, but found a different path. In 2010, I made the move to the Center and never left. I became attached to the individuals I served, I wanted to make sure they were cared for with the best of my ability. I wanted to be their voice and I found my passion while doing so.
What advice would you give someone who is interested in working at the Center? This is the only place you can come to every day and matter to someone. A whole bus load of participants will cheer your name as soon as they see just because it is time to come to work.
What is the biggest change you’ve seen over the years? I have seen lots of changes over the past 12 years, and they have all been for the best. We are always improving and always moving forward to better serve our individuals. We are now allowed to have fish and kitties here, which is great for everyone! I think the best change is more independence and choices our participants have; they can go to dance class, plant class, choir or go on a walk to visit the animals, or even do some work. I feel this is an achievement. Therap (organizational management software) has also been a great change that means we are moving in the right direction.
What keeps you at the Center? I have been very fortunate to learn and achieve so much in my education and career. I never thought I would be where I am now and I appreciate everything. Another big contributor is having great supervisors and mentors, the best co-workers and participants I get to see every day!
Anything else you’d like to add? My son is always asking me to take him to work because it sounds so fun. He is absolutely right, it is fun here! Choose a job you love and you will never work a day in your life. I feel privileged to come and enjoy my time working with all our staff and participants.