Staff Spotlight: Alfonso Jacobs-Coleman
We are so honored to introduce you to Alfonso Jacobs-Coleman, an incredible human and SAY’s Fall Employee of the Quarter!
Alfonso is the staff member who stays awake overnight in our Dream Center Emergency Shelter, a role that he has held since the very first day this shelter opened. Over the last six years, Alfonso has provided safety, stability, and comfort to our youth. His calm, positive attitude not only eases our young residents, but is also one of the many reasons his coworkers nominated Alfonso for this award.
“I love having Alfonso on my team,” says Lila Azbill, Program Coordinator for the Emergency Shelter. “I have learned so much from him. I would not have a shelter without him!”
His colleagues praise Alfonso for his consistent dedication to the young people in the shelter, his ability to handle any situation that comes his way, and his positivity. Alfonso’s patience and steady calm have made an impact on many of the youth in the shelter, who know they can trust him to be a compassionate listener.
“I enjoy being able to be there for the youth just needing to talk at 3 a.m.,” Alfonso says. “My experience at SAY has taught me it’s ok to not be ok.”
Every morning, after making a homecooked breakfast for our SAY youth, Alfonso heads home to spend time with his family and take his son to school. In addition to being a loving parent, he also enjoys being outside and enjoying the fresh air. He loves to get away for a camping trip and spend a few hours fishing. Back at home, Alfonso is an avid gardener.
We’re so grateful that Alfonso is a member of our team, and our young people are lucky to have him as an advocate!