This is Melissa Banerjee. This is her WHY!

 

What brought you to COR?

I was finishing my Kinesiology degree and looking for a placement for my fieldwork. I had heard about COR before and that a placement could be available. Getting in touch with Melissa Kirschman, and spending my summer meeting all the wonderful people in COR was such a great experience. I was asked if I would like to stay on after and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.

Why do you stay?

I stay because COR is a place of acceptance and growth. Everyone at COR is so encouraging and looking to see you do your best. The individuals you support make your day and it doesn’t feel like work, but spending quality time with people you want to be with. This is a community where everyone is connected and I am so grateful to be a part of this!

What’s the best thing about your job?

The best part of my job is that I get to make an impact in the lives around me. I love that I get to be creative and have fun while supporting. It’s fun to see what we can come up with to do each day, and exciting to know that we make each day meaningful to those we support.

What’s been the most impactful or meaningful experience you’ve had?

I have had the opportunity to support many people in COR who have all had an impact on me at some point. These last couple years, I have gotten to support two wonderful individuals who have grown so much and have shared so much with me. The two of them have helped me to learn so much, actively listening has a different meaning when it is more than words that you listen to. I have been able to watch a young man continue to grow stronger each day and he is working so hard at regaining his mobility and his independence. His strength and determination is so fulfilling to watch and the joy he has each day makes everyone smile.

What do you wish others knew about supporting at COR?

I wish others knew how amazing this organization is. It’s not just another job, it’s developing close relationships with the individuals and other supports. It’s a place that encourages autonomy and looks to fulfill meaning into every person’s day. COR wants to see each person grow and offers so much to make that happen.