I'd like to introduce you to Ella, a wonderful Support Staff member. She discovered Brother Andre's by being involved with the Catholic Community in Pittsburgh. She noticed that BA's was hiring, she applied, and the rest is history. We love her; she's always working with a beautiful smile on her face.
Of course I had to ask Ella my classic question AND her response was the classic answer! Her favorite part of work was the joy of the TEAM MEMBERS. (She also mentioned her great co-workers.)
Ella and her sister were adopted from China by her single mom. Ella said that her mom is the sweetest person in the world. A favorite memory from Ella's childhood is that every New Year's Eve, her mom would put many saints names in a cup, they would each draw a name, and that would be their 'Saint of the Year'. I, personally, think that memory is a golden one.
Ella's experience with people with IDD includes her sister who has CP and Epilepsy. Ella insists that growing up with her sister has taught her love and patience. I got to meet her mom and sister one day when they came to visit the Cafe. I loved getting to see their sweet family.
I asked Ella about her life's goals, she said her goals were: to live a good life, to make an impact, and to remember Joy. I think we should ALL take after Ella!
Speaking of a joyful life - Ella tries and enjoys many hobbies. She likes to draw and paint. (It would be awesome for Ella and me to make Art together!) She's been teaching herself to play guitar. I hope she continues to practice hard, learn new skills, and love it. (Maybe I can convince her to give us a concert in the Cafe!) To prove Ella's creative juices never stop flowing, she also likes to crochet and knit. Both projects take serious creativity and focus. (I sure applaud her for that!) Ella also likes to run. She loves being outside and appreciates being part of nature. (AND she's giving her hands and fingers a rest!)
Ella has also had many awesome adventures. She's visited the mountains of Australia and lived in Maine for a while. She said both were mostly 'a life outside' filled with trails and nature and learning.
To relax, Ella does like movies. Her favorites include: 'Little Women' (2019), 'Pride and Prejudice',and 'Anne of Green Gables'. She also likes 'The Artful Dodger' series about characters from Dickens 'Oliver Twist'.
Ella's degree is in Mechanical Engineering and, sadly for us, she is leaving for an Engineering job. We will miss her terribly, but we are excited for what the future holds for her.
Thank You, Ella for all of your contributions to our Cafe. Please come back and visit us!! (If you don't we will find you...hahaha)
We love you, Ella!