Temara Carthens works with us at Act Together as a Crisis Care Professional.
1. How would you describe your job in a few words to a stranger?
I work at a youth crisis shelter. Providing assistance to youth experiencing crisis such as homelessness, childhood trauma and or abuse, human trafficking, and transitioning to a more permanent placement.
2. What’s your typical day at work like?
Surprisingly no 2 days are ever the same. I’m always trying to keep clients busy and meet all their needs; therapeutically, mentally, emotionally, physically, and socially. I also prioritize good communication with our community partners (social workers, court counselors, parents).
3. What is your favorite thing about working at Youth Focus?
Being able to have a say in what I do. I love working with these children and using my own ideas. I’m very supported in almost all my decisions.
4. What is one thing you wish the general public knew about Youth Focus?
I really wish everyone understood we are not a group home or a scared straight program. We are a resource in the community willing to help youth in crisis, whatever that crisis may be. Without Act Together a LOT of youth would be on the streets.
5. What energizes you the most outside of work?
Sleep ????
6. What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
That everyone may not understand how I work as long as it comes from a genuine place. Everyone has a different approach. To know my worth and what I bring to the table. My former Youth Focus co-worker Talisa Bell told me this great advice.
7. If you could choose a superpower, what would it be?
To be invisible. I am very observant and like to watch my surroundings without being a creep.
8. What advice would you give to your teenage self?
To go harder!
9. What’s the biggest misconception people have about the youth you work with?
That they don’t have a voice.
10. What’s one song you have completely memorized?
Someone You Loved by Lewis Capaldi
