Employee of the Year:  Amanda Meza

Employee of the Year:  Amanda Meza

We are so honored to introduce you to our Employee of the Year, Amanda Meza!

Amanda has been an integral part of our team for more than five years. As our Bilingual Housing Services Coordinator and our Human Trafficking Liaison, Amanda is the first point of contact for many of the young people who enter into our Youth Crisis Services programs. She works in collaboration with outside community partners to support trafficking victims ages 18-24 years old.

“I always think about how our services look from the youth’s point of view,” says Elizabeth Goldman, our Chief Program Officer. “And when I think about Amanda and the work that I see her doing, how intentional and thoughtful she is, I would feel so safe and in good hands. I know that Amanda would not stop until I was okay.”

We asked Amanda a few questions about her own personal superpowers and what she wishes the community knew about SAY. Keep reading to learn more about this phenomenal human!

• What are you most proud of when it comes to your work at SAY?

I’m proud to be part of a team that is willing to go above and beyond to support their staff members with one goal in mind: our youth.

• What do you wish other people knew about SAY?

Most times people hear about the population we serve, “homeless youth”, and it comes with a negative perception. I wish they knew that we serve all youth, from such a variety of backgrounds; many could be their own children. With the services offered at SAY, youth are given the chance to take control of their lives and build a support system. It not only takes organizations like SAY to have an impact on this underserved population, but a whole community.

• What are some of your favorite things to do in your free time?

I love spending time with my son. I like to spend my days anywhere near a body of water when I get out with family, friends and small doses of socialization with random humans!

I recently joined a softball team… Wish me luck!

• What is your personal superpower?

I am not sure if it would be considered a superpower in the traditional sense, but as a mother I am always prepared! My team laughs that I carry a backpack with an endless supply of ibuprofen, Band-Aids, water, snacks, lip balms, hair items, tissue paper, office items. It’s kind of an on-going joke.

• What three words would you use to describe yourself?

Shy, funny, and generous.

Congratulations to Amanda for this well-deserved recognition!