A Day in the Life: Annie Havens
The Work That Found Me
A New Path
I was a stay-at-home Mom for 20 years and then I worked in the banking world. I had lived in Glens Falls, NY for about three years when I was ready to find a new job. An old coworker told me about the front desk job at AIM. I didn’t know anything about the organization, but I was open to the next thing. I had a dear friend with down syndrome that I knew since we were 18 years old, and I have interacted with people with disabilities in the past, but this job would be a completely new experience. I had two interviews in two days at AIM, and I was offered the job on the second day. It has been a wonderful experience ever since.
When I started at AIM, I was a nervous wreck about navigating the phone system. I was also not the most computer literate. So, I had a lot of self-doubt about doing my job well. But the people who would train me said they would teach me everything I would need to know. And that’s what I have continued to find here: total support and people wanting to help.
Sharing Her Gifts
I think a lot about the gifts I’ve been given in life, and those are to give to and serve others. I’ve been able to use these gifts at the front desk where I greet and help people. I’ve received many compliments for how I help people feel comfortable when they come to our building entrance. I am proud to help create this welcoming environment for our visitors. I’ve overheard people say, “Go ask Annie, she’ll know.” This makes me feel so good that I am part of this supportive environment. A few years ago, I took on the task of collecting the recyclable bottles at the office in order to get them ready for two gentlemen we support, Ervin and Michael. They take the cans to redeem to earn some extra cash. I often hear Michael tell his staff, “She’s great!”, or “She’s the best!”, which truly touches my heart. I know my little effort just made someone else’s day. That’s what its all about: making someone’s day a little brighter, a little lighter.
When COVID began, I had the opportunity to start helping in the evenings in one of our apartments supporting two women. I have enjoyed spending time and building a relationship with each of them. I’ve also been able to use my artistic and decorating skills during our fundraising events throughout the year and have even taught a few art classes to our group programs. I always wanted to be an art teacher, and I am grateful to be able to use my different abilities and bring a smile to their faces when they see what they created. Making a difference in someone’s life means everything to me.
In February, I will be celebrating 10 years at AIM. I’m happy to say that I did indeed master the phone system, and I am now teaching people how to do that! I am also happy that I bring comfort and familiarity to the people we support when they call or come into the building. They are at ease when they call and know I will be on the other end of the line, ready to help them. When they visit, they see a familiar face who understands many of their needs.
Making a Difference
AIM’s supportive culture amazes me. People here truly care and are always willing to be there for one another. From my perspective, we are like family. I love working with these people. And every day I intend to do my job well and show kindness to the people I encounter. Working here is very fulfilling. I believe we have a purpose in life to interact with one another. People want to have a meaningful job and help one another in whatever capacity they can. We hold each other up. When I lay my head down at night, I know I’ve done my best and completed what I think I was supposed to do. We’re all in this together. We’re all here to support one another, so we can support the people we serve.
If you’re thinking about working in this field, I want you to know that this is more than job. It’s a field where lives are changed and dreams are fulfilled. You will be able to experience the joy of making. a meaningful difference in people’s lives, all while creating beautiful relationships along the way. Like any job, there will be challenging times. You just need to be patient, reach out for extra support, and you will find others here ready to help who are eager for you to succeed. All you need is the heart and willingness to adapt, a desire to learn, and the dedication to show up for others every day. You’ll be glad you took that initial step into this life-changing field.