At iACT, we have great appreciation for the wonderful staff who make our service work possible! In this Staff Spotlight, Karen McDonald, AmeriCorps Member working with iACT, tells us a little more about herself.
Q: Where are you from? How long have you been in Austin?
A: Originally from Chicago, my family relocated to Washington, D.C. as I entered high school, so I call the East Coast home. After I completed my tour of duty with Peace Corps Response last year, it took me a while to decide where I wanted to put down roots. Last fall, I came upon a description of the work of iACT. When realized what amazing work was being accomplished and the way in which iACT is able to mobilize this vast network of community support, I wanted to be involved. Having spent some time as an instructor at the Defense Language Institute at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, I already knew and loved Austin. So, I moved back to Texas last year, just after Thanksgiving.
How long have you worked at iACT?
I pretty much hit the ground running in November, so I’ve worked at iACT about 7 months.
What do you do at iACT?
My job has to do with supporting our talented teachers who provide ESL instruction, the foundation of the Refugee Program. They let me know when they need volunteers to assist in classes and I provide orientation and placement for new volunteers. I also assist the coordinator with testing and enrollment of new students.
What do you enjoy the most about the work you do at iACT?
A couple of times a week, I work with refugee women on issues related to jobs and career planning. Having interpreters has helped eliminate language barriers, so we are able to have deeply relevant discussions. But, my most favorite moment comes in the morning when I greet the students as they come into the building. Some come on crutches, others can only manage with walkers. There are mothers with strollers and a few who arrive with babies tied to their backs. I love being the welcoming committee.
What’s the most challenging thing about working at iACT?
Continuity of instruction and student retention are among the greatest challenges we face in the Refugee Program. It’s difficult for language learners to make progress when class attendance is irregular. We know that people have to work, so some students can only come one or two days a week. And life happens. When you’re learning to navigate life in a foreign country, you may miss class for a variety of unavoidable reasons. But, it makes it difficult for teachers to plan and for students to make progress.
What’s the most rewarding thing about working with iACT that you have experienced?
The most rewarding thing is being able to act as goodwill ambassador. Refugees often arrive in the U.S. frightened, nervous, even traumatized. They may have encountered Americans who’ve caused them to feel less than welcome. I want them to feel safe with us. Embodying kindness and compassion is my daily practice.
Why would you encourage others to support the work of iACT?
The ‘good will network’ that Interfaith Action of Central Texas has created touches so many lives. We can’t meet every need of every person, but we do our best and nothing is wasted. iACT is 100% devoted to easing the burden of people in very difficult situations. In addition, through the Red Bench and The Passport programs, iACT is helping to dismantle the sociocultural barriers that divide us. I am reminded of the Teddy Roosevelt quote: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”
