We want you all to meet Elyse Venturella. Elyse currently practices social work in Philadelphia and is taking 6 months off to join us in Uganda. We think she is great, which is why we asked her to come on board as we launch Abide. Elyse will be traveling to Uganda in August and teaming up with our social work staff to help in implementing effective family strengthening services to families.
We asked Elyse to share a little bit about herself so you all can put a face, name and story to the newest member of the Abide team.
"During my theatre performance studies at Elizabethtown
College, I discovered that theatre is about the human connection through
story. I took my passion for stories to
Philadelphia, where I was an English tutor for Arabic speaking immigrants. In
the midst of the frustrating and humorous language barrier, the stories and
passionate families lead me to Temple University’s Masters in Social Work
program. I’m now a therapist for women with prostitution and addiction concerns.
I also volunteer for Back on My Feet, where I run three times a week with
residents of a homeless shelter. It doesn't matter if it is a classroom, a
therapist office, or the Kelly Drive running loop – all of the individual
stories I have been blessed to hear are about a place to call home. And rather then treating the problem, I strive
to assist others in preventing the continuation of their struggles. This is why
I believe in Abide Family Center. I believe there are alternative solutions to
providing families care and support, as they create their home. The solution
and tools for prevention are in the story. I am honored to join the center as a
social worker in August 2013 and plan to learn and share with the Ugandan
culture for 6 months."
Elyse, welcome aboard! We are thrilled to have you along for the ride.
