We’re so lucky at NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley to have a staff of hardworking, committed team-players who work tirelessly at our mission of building affordable housing and enriching community life.
In this series, you’ll get to know the people behind the work.
Tell us about yourself.
I have been working in non-profit accounting for 25 years at various levels. Finance is my second career! Prior to that, I worked as a social worker. I have a bachelors in Social Work from Rhode Island College and one in Accounting from Bryant! I got my Masters in Public Administration from Framingham State. I am married and have two grown children who both live in Tampa, Florida.
What do you do at NWBRV?
I am the Director of Finance and Administration for NeighborWorks! On a day to day basis, my job involves dealing with cash flow and processing billing for various funders. Both my co-worker Brenda and myself support program managers around payroll matters and vendor payment issues. In addition to regular daily concerns, I support mangers with reports and analysis with respect to their departments, and concerns.
On a monthly basis I provide the Board with reports and have worked with the board Finance Committee to update both the agency financial and HR policies and procedures. Most recently we have begun a new implementation of accounting software, which will provide easier access to reporting and information to managers.
How long have you been working with NWBRV, and how did you start working with the organization?
A little over a year and half! There was a job posting for a Finance Director on Indeed, and at the time I was looking for a change and decided to apply.
What inspires you to do this work?
From a finance standpoint, the work is challenging. What is the most important to me is how numbers can impact the lives of individuals. I can both understand and appreciate how finance can have this impact.
What is your proudest accomplishment working with NWBRV?
This past year has been a year of learning! Learning about the programs and the processes involved in housing development, and who the funders are. Getting to know staff has been a really enjoyable part of the learning process. Witnessing their dedication in the work they do and the individuals they serve, is truly inspiring.
