Kendall started with SCAN two years ago as a Therapeutic Aide at the Circle Preschool Program. Recently, she took on a new role as our full time Administrative & Special Events Assistant. She’s providing support for event and development activities, Community Programs, and the Family Support Program. We are thankful to have Kendall’s diversity of skills, great insight, and dedication to children and families on the SCAN team!
How did you first get involved with SCAN?
When I first moved to Richmond, Circle preschool was the first job I interviewed for and was chosen to be a Therapeutic Aide starting for the 2020/2021 school year.
What has your life/work experience been that brought you to SCAN?
Before starting with SCAN I worked at another organization that does work in preventing and responding to abuse in Christian environments, which is really what got me started to be interested in and ultimately have a passion for this type of work.
What inspires you to stay involved with SCAN?
Throughout my time working at Circle preschool and now in a role with the development side of things and with community programs and FSP I have really been able to see how SCAN‘s programs really affect those we work with and how children and families in the Richmond area are better for it.
Is there anything you wish other people knew about SCAN?
Everything! SCAN is an amazing organization that touches the lives of so many different types of people and I can’t imagine devoting my days to more important work. I truly believe that child development and specifically the role that families play in child development is one of the most important things there is and that is really what drives SCAN.
What has been the best experience with SCAN so far?
In the two years that I worked at the Circle preschool program, being able to watch the children that I worked with grow, develop empathy and care for one another; and just being part of a preschool class that really became a family was incredible.
What are any challenges you have faced in your work with SCAN?
Hearing some of the stories from children I've worked with about the things that they have experienced in their young lives and just knowing that I was not able to protect them from some of the bad that had already happened.
Do you have any goals or hopes for the next year?
It is exciting to be a part of the development side of things now, and I plan to continue sharing from the experiences I have had and I'm still having with SCAN to encourage others to get involved and to support SCAN in whatever way they can.
Are you involved with any other community organizations, hobbies, or activities?
I am getting more involved with my church, Common Table, and have also been stepping into the film scene by participating in the Richmond 48 hour film project twice this year.
What might someone be surprised to learn about you?
I have been trying to begin doing aerial acrobatics with a friend. So I am working on strength and flexibility and using that as a creative and physical outlet.