EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Quanda Williams
Nominated by Rosalind Jackson, Direct Service Advocate, DVSS & Luis Santiago, Director of Adult Residential Programs
“You are capable of making a difference in this world. Believe in your power to create positive change.” – Mel Robbins
Quan. Quanda. In the immortal words of William Shakespeare, “a rose by any other name would smell as sweet”, and no matter what you call Quanda Williams, it doesn’t change how quietly humble and diligent she is in her work at the YWCA.
Quan first came to the YWCA of Western Massachusetts in April 2023 as a part-time employee for the Springfield Young Parent Program (SYPP). “I enjoy the work I do,” said Quan; so when a full-time Direct Service Advocate position opened up for the Domestic Violence Shelter Services (DVSS), she applied and earned the position.
“In the short time that Q has worked at DVSS, she has been an example of reliability and teamwork, becoming a leader amongst her teammates,” said Luis Santiago, Director of Adult Residential Programs. No stranger to hard work, in June, Quan was promoted to Support Specialist for DVSS. Said Quan, “As Support Specialist, I work with clients and assist them with housing searches, DTA benefits, health insurance, enrolling their children in school, providing emotional support, and so much more.”
“Q goes above and beyond for the women in the program,” said Ms. Ros, Direct Service Advocate for DVSS. “The way she cares for the people she serves says a lot about her character. Q is beyond a team player. She is always available to take on any role and help her co-workers. She is really so deserving of this nomination. Q, you are appreciated.”
Adds Luis, “Since accepting the Support Specialist position, Q has successfully navigated the difficult waters of being empathetic and trauma-informed with clients, while at the same time making sure that guidelines and rules are followed. As a result, we have had high successful rates of DVSS residents moving out and transitioning to safe housing.”
Prior to working at the YWCA, Quan worked with children for 13 years. “I have not always worked in this field,” she said. “The transition from working in the public school system to working with adults has been great.” A certified Registered Behavior Technician, Quan has worked with children with Autism and Social/Emotional Development challenges.
“I always loved working with children, but I felt like I needed to do more,” said Quan. “I have always wanted to work at the YWCA. When I would scroll through Indeed job listings, I always got discouraged and didn’t apply, because I didn’t have the ‘experience’ working with survivors.” Thankfully, Quan pushed aside those thoughts of inferiority and instead trusted herself enough to let her work ethic and dedication speak for itself. “One day I just got the urge to apply,” she said. “I was then given the opportunity and hired, and I haven’t regretted it.”
“I am so honored to be a part of the YWCA,” said Quan. “I have learned so much. I work alongside some great individuals. They make my workdays easier. I also love helping others.”
“Knowing that I have made a positive impact in someone’s life, even if it’s just for a moment helps me sleep better at night,” concluded Quan. “I take pride in everything that I do.”
