Amazing Erin

I'd like to introduce you to Erin, the Manager of Gift of Mary For those of you who don't know, Gift of Mary is a women's center for vulnerable, homeless women. It offers resources to improve situations while affirming dignity. Counseling, meals and necessities are offered. Gift of Mary is Downtown and is a collaboration with Red Door (where Erin often helps). 

Erin is an Occupational Therapist (OT) and will soon also be involved with OT responsibilities here at our Cafe. I love OT's; so many of my very good friends are wonderful OT's. (In fact, my friend, Amara- who is currently studying to become an OT- and I joke that I could begin an OT Club!)  As an OT, Erin has some wise words to say about people with disabilities: she believes people are not disabled, rather our environment creates barriers that prevent everyone's full participation. As a person with a disability, I feel that statement. I see that society often treats people with disabilities like they're 'less than'. I'm working hard to change that point of view through my writing and advocacy work.

Erin got her Master's at Washington University in St Louis. (Fun fact: my Dad is from St Louis and I remember that, one time, I got to touch the Arch!) Erin is originally from Iowa, where most of her family remains. However, she, her husband and five children (ages ranging from 20 to 30) live in Pittsburgh now! A few of Erin's children are still in college, and her oldest just got married. I know from experience what wonderful family fun a wedding can be!

Erin leads a pretty busy life. She likes scrapbooking - which sounds like such a solid, creative outlet. I'd love to see some of her designs. She also enjoys running with her  two "crazy" dogs. I totally get that! I love to go on walks with my dog, Skipper! Erin and I have that happiness in common; how cool is that?!

I'm interested in people's favorite books and TV shows, so I asked Erin about hers. I should have asked more about her latest reading choices, but I did discover that she loved watching The Chosen (specifically Season 5). I have seen bits and pieces of that show and I think it's a great way to learn about Jesus' Journey.

Erin is a wonderful part of our team. We hope you'll take the time to get to know her. You'll find that she's a lovely person.

Thank You for all that you do, Erin.