Emerging Leadership in Community: Interview with Pam Davidson

9. I’d like to learn more about your involvement in this organization:

First, describe the leadership role that you play.

I am the Program Manager of CalWORKs Employment & Training.  My job is to oversee the delivery of services, supervise and train staff, and ensure staff members have the resources they need in order to get the job done.

Building community partnerships is also a critical piece of my job.  I work closely with local community based organizations to identify gaps in services and look at ways we can collaborate to address these gaps without wasting time and resources.

Second, in what ways do you believe you have most helped the organization?

I have helped the organization by providing structure around programs and initiatives. I am also helpful in reinforcing the Department’s Mission with staff and providing staff with the resources and training they need to do the job.

I also believe the relationships I have developed in the community are very beneficial. I really like working in the community and believe in partnering with others and not working in isolation.

Third, as you think back over your involvement in the organization, what roadblocks have been most challenging?

The biggest road block is the lack of time.  It is hard to prioritize because most of what we do is important.

Fourth, what experiences within the organization have given you the most meaning and satisfaction?

It is meaningful to know that what we’re doing makes a difference and how we’re doing it makes a bigger difference.  Somebody can come in and not be eligible for a program or service, but it’s how you tell them and the respect you give that person that they will remember. Good customer service is critical.

For me, it is frustrating to have a staff member come in and simply say something didn’t work. Instead, I am creating an environment where staff comes in and talks about why something didn’t work and possible ways to make it work.  It is important that people don’t feel diminished. I think if we can provide excellent customer service as an agency, that’s a great gift to the community.

10. I want to ask you three additional questions about your various community involvements:

First, what motivates or inspires you to engage in civic activities and causes?

My passion for the work is what motivates me.  Ever since I was very young, I always had this sense of justice. What’s fair, what’s equitable, and what’s not right? I think that’s been my whole work as an adult. My college education reinforced that and my work has always been, “How can I help address issues or practices that aren’t just?”