Staff Highlight: Welcoming Mikal Elder, One of our Program Support Specialists
We are thrilled to introduce Mikal Elder, one of our Program Support Specialists at Front Steps. As a veteran, he understands the need for unhoused veteran neighbors in the Travis County community. We’re excited Mikal has joined the Front Steps team! Here’s a glimpse into his background, motivations, and vision for his role with us.
Welcome to Front Steps, Mikal! Could you tell us a little bit about your journey and what led you to become a Program Support Specialist?
My journey to serving as a Program Support Specialist at Front Steps stemmed from my active-duty experience in the Air Force. I worked as a Munitions Control Operator for several squadrons at different bases, and the skillset/experience I acquired positioned me to be successful in my new role.
What attracted you to Front Steps, and what are you most excited about in your new role?
Ultimately, what attracted me to Front Steps was the mission to assist veterans in need. Additionally, I witnessed the quality of work and passion from the Front Steps team firsthand while attending events, which contributed to the appeal. I am most excited to aid, support, and develop healthy outcomes for veterans experiencing homelessness.
How do you envision supporting the Case Management team to enhance our services and outcomes for clients?
My vision to enhance our case management team is to simply be as efficient as I can with my responsibilities. The case management team has a tremendous drive to provide outstanding resources and deliver the best possible results for the veterans to which they extend services. My goal is to channel the same spirit they embody and add value where I can.
What skills and experiences do you bring to your role that you believe will be particularly beneficial for our programs?
The most prominent skill I bring to the table is my ability to work as a team member. Being a veteran myself, I understand the importance of effective communication in the work environment. My role as the Program Support Specialist allows me to bridge my strengths as a leader and team member to fulfill my duties.
What are some key areas you think we can improve in our case management support, and how do you plan to address them?
In my opinion, there’s always improvements that can be made for better functionality in the work space. Throughout the short period I have been here, the procedures in place are constructed well. Therefore, I believe the areas for improvement will come to me as I familiarize myself with our mission.
How do you stay organized and efficient while managing multiple tasks and responsibilities?
I am able to stay organized through meticulously scheduling each assigned task within my day-to-day calendar. Funneling each assignment by degree of importance allows me to manage my time effectively.
In what ways do you plan to engage with the community to better understand their needs and how we can support them?
My plan to engage with the community is to actively show up to the events Front Steps arranges. In doing so, I feel I can gather a sense of the community views regarding areas that need attention and where initiating advancement tactics can be mutually beneficial.
What motivates you to work in this field, and how do you maintain your passion for helping others?
My motivation to work in this field directly correlates to my character as a person. I have always harnessed a passion for helping others in any way possible.
What are your short-term and long-term goals as you start your journey with Front Steps, and how do you plan to achieve them?
A short-term goal for me at Front Steps is to fluently incorporate my creativity into our collective works as a team. I believe that starts with establishing myself as a reliable team member. A long-term goal is to exceed expectation and consistently get veterans the necessary help.