A Day in the Life at Center for Hope
Welcome to A Day in the Life at Center for Hope, a blog series highlighting the dedicated professionals who support individuals and families affected by trauma, violence and loss. Center for Hope (CFH) serves as a beacon for those facing difficult times, offering essential advocacy, counseling and resources. In this series, we’ll explore the work and perspectives of those who contribute to CFH’s mission daily.
Today, we meet Nija McQueen, supervisor for the Child and Family Advocacy Program. She shares what motivates her at work, how she gives back to the community through volunteerism and the simple way she finds daily inspiration.
Q1. Who are you, and what do you do at Center for Hope?
A. My name is Nija McQueen, and I am the supervisor for the Child and Family Advocacy Program.
Q2. Do you volunteer or give back to your community outside of work? If so, how?
A. Yes, I am currently a member of the Executive Council for Emerging Leaders through United Way, a role I’ve held for the past year. This program is designed for young professionals who are passionate about growing their careers through volunteerism and philanthropy. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I've connected with a diverse network of driven individuals and had the opportunity to give back to my community in a meaningful way.
Q3. What’s the most rewarding part of your day?
A. The most rewarding part of my day is walking into work and seeing my team. We have a truly supportive, collaborative environment that makes every day enjoyable. I genuinely look forward to being here. I also find great fulfillment in meeting with clients and being the person they can rely on during such a challenging time. Knowing I can support them when they need it most is incredibly meaningful to me.
Q4. Do you have a favorite snack, song or quote that keeps you going during the day?
A. I have a daily inspirational quote booklet that corresponds to each date, and I love starting my mornings by reading it when I arrive at work. It helps set a positive tone for the day and gives me a little boost of motivation to get started