It’s National Safe Place Week, and we’re celebrating! #NSPWeek2020 honors Safe Place, an outreach and prevention program for youth in crisis that is operated locally by Youth Focus. National Safe Place Week serves to recognize the many valued partners who work together to provide immediate help and safety for all young people. It is a dedicated time to acknowledge Safe Place locations and community partners, volunteers, and staff. Jannifer Pastorick is the heart and hands behind Safe Place locally.
Let’s learn more about Jannifer!
1. What is your favorite memory from Youth Focus?
I visited the Morehead Park Recreation Center in High Point for a standard site check. The youth program coordinator told me that she was so happy I came and explained that an eighteen-year-old young man from the neighborhood was experiencing intermittent homelessness. With the help of my supervisor, Esther Ngo, I was able to provide her with information about agencies in her community to assist the young man in acquiring support and long-term housing.
2. What is one thing you wish the general public knew about Youth Focus?
I share with everyone who asks how impressed and grateful I am to know that everyone in the organization is concerned about and attentive to all of the needs of the children in the care of Youth Focus.
3. Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?
Esther Ngo has influenced me the most with her eagerness to serve and her attention to detail.
4. What led you to Youth Focus and working with young adults?
I am a social worker. I have great compassion for vulnerable populations, especially children.
5. What are three words to describe Youth Focus?
Professional, approachable, attentive.
6. What advice would you give to your teenage self?
I would advise my teenage self to hone the art of self-control and be strategic in all I do.
7. If you were stuck on an island, what three things would you bring?
The Bible, my dog, and a hammock.
8. What’s your most-used emoji?
😉
