STAFF SPOTLIGHT: ISAAC BELL
What are your job responsibilities?
I am tasked with a variety of responsibilities, with an even more varied range. I often tell people I am a Jack of all trades and skilled in none. I wear many hats, from IT to keeping our building to code. I see myself as the platform that allows and creates an environment for our employees to do their work.
When did you get involved with Carpenter’s Shelter? What attracted you to the mission?
I originally became attracted to the Carpenter’s Shelter when I realized the work that was being done behind these brick walls. Living in the area, I had passed the Carpenter’s Shelter countless times, and not known what was happening here. Now that I have been a part of it for some time, it’s hard to talk to somebody, or meet someone, who has not had some touch to the Carpenter’s Shelter.
What sets Carpenter’s Shelter apart from other organizations?
The fact that we have enough volunteers to fill eight full time positions. Also the amount of money that is fundraised that actually goes towards programs is pretty phenomenal.
What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not working at Carpenter’s Shelter?
I love to cook, fish, and work on my reef aquarium. I wrench on different things around my apartment as well. With a wedding coming up, I get all sorts of “work” outside of work, so I stay pretty busy.
What aspects of your job at Carpenter’s Shelter do you find most rewarding?
It’s nice to know that there is great work being done here. I do not have what I feel is a personal touch to the social services aspect, but I still feel that staff and management give me a voice on that side of things.
In your opinion, what is the most important work that this organization does?
To actually provide a foundation for the people that come through our doors is the most important aspect. There is a service that we, or a partner provides, to every need. That’s amazing to me. If you can’t get a job because you don’t have a résumé, not a problem, our Education Coordinator has a class for that. You’re not familiar with real estate, not a problem, we have a Housing Coordinator who can help you develop a plan for housing. Even after you leave our doors, we have a great support network. I don’t know of any other place that does what happens here.