With a background in education and nearly five years of experience in the nonprofit industry, Sharalle Richardson has always had a heart for children. When the opportunity to work at West Michigan Partnership for Children appeared, Sharalle was determined to rise to the occasion and make an impact on the local community.
“Coming to work daily, knowing that I am working in conjunction with a team of people who are champions for our community’s children is extremely affirming,” says Sharalle.
Continue reading to learn more about Sharalle:
What is your role at WMPC? What are your responsibilities in this role?
As WMPC’s Administrative Coordinator, I engage with partners, key stakeholders, and visitors to ensure all needs are met by maintaining a welcoming environment throughout the office.
One of the most fun parts about my job is that I am responsible for WMPC’s website and social media updates!
What is the most rewarding part about your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is being able to assist the WMPC team, our partners, and community in creating a place of belonging where children and families flourish. It’s a fantastic feeling to know that the work we’re doing will create a legacy and have a lasting impact.
“There isn’t a person within the organization whose job you don’t touch,” is a quote that I will always recall from Rhonda Kreuzer, owner of Partners in Action.
On the flip side, what is the most challenging part about your job?
In that same vein, the most challenging part about my job is the pressure that comes from working on many moving pieces. I am a competitive person and a perfectionist by nature; I am my worst critic.
If there is a detail missing in any of WMPC’s items, it could greatly affect the flow of an event or a service that the organization provides. However, the entire WMPC team is a great support system and they help troubleshoot in case any mishaps do arise.
As a brand new start-up, what inspired you to want to work for WMPC?
I thoroughly enjoy creating and establishing things, which is why I was initially drawn to working at WMPC as a brand new start-up. I mostly looked forward to the ground work it would take to establish WMPC as a trusted name in the community and the implementation of its new programs.
What is one thing you wish people knew about foster care?
With a background in education, I had many preconceived thoughts about foster care before I began working in the nonprofit industry — many of which were untrue. After working in Kent County’s foster care system, I now understand that the main goal of foster care is to reunify children with their biological families. I wish people knew the tireless collaboration and time it takes to ensure that the best interest of foster youth is met. The dedication that foster care employees contribute to ensure the best future for foster youth is inspiring, and while the work can feel overwhelming, it’s entirely worth it.
How has your position at WMPC and your experience in the nonprofit industry changed your perspective?
Since my time at WMPC my perspective has changed tremendously. I am now able to see the behind the scenes work that’s needed to make advancements to Kent County’s foster care system. There is a lot of work being done to help children in our community, and I’m so grateful to be a part of that.
What is your hope for WMPC and the Kent County foster care system?
My hope is that WMPC, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and its partners exceed their goals, create better futures for children and families, hear the needs of the local communities, and continue to implement change.
To get in touch with Sharalle, please email: srichardson@wmpc.care.