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.
My name is Lucy Goulet. I have been a Resident Service Coordinator for over 20 years! I was born and raised in Woonsocket, which is where I feel the most grounded. I currently live in North Smithfield. I raised my family in Blackstone, Massachusetts. However, with my roots deep in the city I love, my first position was working as a medical social worker at Thundermist Health Clinic for over eight years. During my time at Thundermist, I became very familiar with the local organizations that were working for the betterment of the underprivileged. I did most of my work in Womens Health but not exclusively. I also worked in pediatrics and adult medicine. I was involved in the Healthcare for the Homeless program as the coordinator.
What do you do at NWBRV?
I am the Resident Service Coordinator at Meadows. I coordinate programs that are focused on the physical, social and financial benefits for healthy ageing adults. As the RSC, my complete joy in my work comes from the success of connecting our residents to the benefits that make life easier. Also to see smiles on faces in knowing that they matter.
How long have you been working with NWBRV, and how did you start working with the organization?
After serving as an RSC for more than 20 years I was alerted that the Meadows would have an open position. I immediately gravitated to applying for the position at the Meadows and was honored to be selected as the candidate.
I’ve been at the Meadows for close to a year. After leaving Thundermist, I became employed with Women’s Development Corporation as a Resident Service Coordinator. When I began at WDC, I was the sole RSC for five senior buildings ranging from Johnston, West Warwick, South Kingstown and Hopkinton. I also was the RSC for the Woonsocket program who managed low-income and disabled housing for Community Care Alliance. I was there for 19 years. During a casual lunch with Millie Lukens she mentioned she was thinking about retiring, I told her that I would love the position at the Meadows. Working in one building doing what I love would be a dream! Thankfully Millie was kind enough to suggest to NeighborWorks that I may be a good candidate! When I received the call from Roslind Mitchell offering the position I was so honored to be considered. For that I am eternally grateful.
What inspires you to do this work?
As soon as I began my position at the Meadows, I felt grounded. I was familiar with many of the residents already being that we are mostly from our small community. I began to brush up on my limited French to connect with my Canadian heritage (that’s been fun and challenging!). But most of all, I feel I’ve expanded on all the programs and benefits that are afforded to seniors. Working throughout the state made it very difficult to provide the services I truly wished I could.
What is your proudest accomplishment working with NWBRV?
Since starting my position at the Meadows, we’ve had so many fun activities, and educational programs! I have been having Reiki sessions with residents in the wellness room. I have conducted four Grief Recovery Method sessions (I am a Grief Recovery Specialist) of which I receive bi-weekly online training. This is a program true to my heart, as I have seen such an overwhelming sense of peace after the completion of the sessions.
We have started an Armchair travel program. Our first trip was to Greece. Our next trip next month will be to Canada. I am enlisting any of the residents with a special connection to Canada, to become a part of an advisory group. Our trips include food that is specific to the country we are celebrating and of course décor, music and a screening of virtual tours and relevant movies.
During open enrollment for Medicare, we had 30 residents meet with Medicare specialists for review of their plans! I work with a great team at the Meadows. Along with the Property Manager, Erin Pepin and the Maintenance Superintendent, Carlos Rodriquez have created a cohesive and comprehensive team approach working with all the Meadows residents. I’m very proud of what we do!
