Spotlight: Rachel, Specialized Residential Support Staff – CSAC’s Community Associates
Q: What do you enjoy most about being a Residential Staff?
Rachel: I enjoy being part of the lives of funny, interesting, and genuinely fun people. There are so many good days and moments to share together.
Q: How do you know when you’ve made a difference in someone’s life?
Rachel: When we can laugh together. When someone feels comfortable enough to just be themselves around me, I know we’ve built trust and connection — and that I’m making a difference.
Q: What kind of person does well in this job?
Rachel: Someone who truly wants to see others succeed and who genuinely cares about people’s well-being.
Q: How did you learn the role?
Rachel: I learned through shadowing other staff and mentors at the agency. Over the years, I’ve learned best practices and new approaches from so many great coworkers.
Q: What kind of support do you get from your team?
Rachel: They’re an incredibly supportive group. We lean on each other to problem-solve, encourage, and empathize. It makes a big difference.
Q: Is there something you’ve learned that surprised you?
Rachel: I’m always surprised by the depth of people’s stories. Even after knowing someone for years, you can learn something new that completely changes your understanding of them.
Q: How does your residential schedule support your work–life balance?
Rachel: It’s one of my absolute favorite things about this job. I love that I can come to work as the best version of myself and still have plenty of time for my family and other things I enjoy. My schedule includes overnights and days — about 30 hours a week — which counts as benefits-eligible at CSAC. It really gives me the best of both worlds.
Q: Can you share an example of agency support that stood out to you?
Rachel: A few times I’ve needed to take leave, and each time HR sat down with me, made individualized spreadsheets, and walked me through how to use my paid time off and benefits. I felt cared for and supported — it went smoothly every time.
Q: What makes CSAC a good place to work?
Rachel: The benefits package is great, and I’ve really appreciated the emphasis on creating a healthy work environment. My schedule was designed to support that balance, and I’ve been lucky to work with such great coworkers.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for a residential position?
Rachel: If you’re looking for a job that’s meaningful, that truly matters, and that also offers great work–life balance, residential positions are perfect. It’s meaningful work with purpose and heart.