We have so many things to be thankful for this year, it’s difficult to list them all.
Our administrators, our support staff…our site directors, our kids and the families who entrust their care with us.
At AYS, we are fortunate to work for an organization that makes a difference in young people’s lives every day, by helping to keep them safe and happy, and improving their performance in school.
This Thanksgiving, we’d like to highlight a couple of the great folks who work directly with our kids. We’re turning the “microphone” over to them, so they can share what they’re thinking about this holiday season.
Kelle Rogers is in her 4th year as site director for IPS’ School #84. Previously, she served in the same role at School #70. Her background also includes a stint as an academic advisor at a small college in Wisconsin. Here’s what she has to say:
- “I’m thankful for the leadership of this organization.
- I see their vision for the future and I know that everything they’re thinking about will make our agency even better.
- Working at #84 is wonderful. The kids are gentle and intelligent and they challenge me.
- I’m thankful this year for my health and family.
- I’m a struggling graduate student, so I appreciate having this job, so I can go to school and improve myself at the same time.
- I love working with these kids, and the parents here are very supportive.
- I’m looking forward to spending my Thanksgiving with my mom, who I haven’t seen in two years.”
Andrea Straughan works alongside Kelle at School #84. She came to Indianapolis from New York City.
- “I am thankful for my health and my strength.
- I am thankful for my beautiful daughters.
- AYS is a good place. I’ve been with the agency for 16 years. It’s like a second home.
- I love the kids and the staff I get to interact with every day.
- Here’s an example of why this is a great place to work: I lost my dad a year ago. During the memorial service for him, I turned around, and everyone was there. That made me feel good.”
Tomorrow on the blog, we’ll share what some of our AYS kids are thankful for, this time of the year.
