Marissa Howard has been our friend for a couple of years now, and she has been participating in Bridges` programs, volunteering during 2013 floods, mentoring youth, etc. She is wearing many hats and we talked to her to find out what is she currently involved with and what are her passions.
- Can you introduce yourself?
Marissa: My name is Marissa Howard I am a mother, student, and ambitious. I currently live in Calgary and work with Bridges on the Mentorship Program, for my practicum. I’ve studied at Bow Valley College for my Youth Justice Diploma and Reeves College for my Addictions & Community Worker Diploma.
- How did you hear of Bridges?
Marissa: I was placed with Bridges through the Siksika Employment and Training Work Experience Program from Siksika Outreach.
- How are you involved with Canada Bridges (what are you working on)?
Marissa: I’m working on the Mentorship Program. I will be doing the community networking map, connecting youth with the resources they need and would like to access.
- What Bridges` programs have you participated in?
Marissa: Building relationships with youth in Siksika After the 2013 flood, the AYE – A Youth Explosion, and now the Mentorship Program.
- Who, from the Bridges family, were you working with?
Marissa: I’ve worked with Jenn, Kristin, and Sarah.
- Where has Bridges helped and supported you the most?
Marissa: Bridges has supported and got me through those days where it was a challenge to life. I met Jenn with Bridges first and she became my mentor (still is today), she always encouraged me and was there when I doubted myself. Meeting the rest of the Bridges family made me feel more welcomed and like I belonged with them :)! They’ve supported me emotionally, mentally, and spiritually through the decisions of personal, educational, and/or career wise. Working with Bridges helped me to find my Potential and Spark and I wish to pass that along to others.
- What are the biggest challenges you are taking on currently?
Marissa: Right now I’m not taking too much on, I just finished school after 3 years of going months back to back. The challenges I faced were tough getting here though; balancing out the professional life to your personal life is the biggest challenge I’ve faced and still am facing.
- What are your passions?
Marissa: YOUTH! They are my passion, they are our present. Helping them find who they are and what they want to bring to our world’s future.
- What are your goals for future?
Marissa: My goals for the future is to be working on my PhD in Psychology.