Community Action is happy to announce the recipient of our 2024 July Staff Spotlight, Financial/Costing Specialist, Meena Ganapathy!
Her nominator said, "While we were short-staffed and Meena was the only coster, Meena stepped up and served with humility and compassion; she is boldly accountable and consistently reliable. Meena also waters our plants (most of them are plants she brought in for all to enjoy) and she also brings in ramen noodle packages for those that have forgotten or didn't bring a lunch, just out of the kindness of her heart. Meena has a heart of gold and is an asset to CAPRW; to know Meena is to love her and we are very lucky to have her.“
We are so grateful to have staff members such as Meena Ganapathy that exemplify our mission, vision, and values! Recently we caught up with Meena to learn more about her and how she views her role at Community Action.
What is your favorite part about working at CAPRW?
The first favorite thing is I work for the community people even though I am not directly involved with them. Second thing is my coworkers, they are like a family. According to my department work, I love working with numbers. Tallying the numbers in payment and overall costing etc. are also my favorite part and I enjoy my work.
Do you have a favorite memory about working with families?
Previously when we were in Saint Louis, Missouri, we had a great time with families when we worked together for Association meetings, Cultural Programs, Fundraising Events, Spelling Bee Competitions and Soup Kitchens. I will have those sweet memories ever.
How did you discover your passion for working with a nonprofit?
Initially I went to my Son’s school to volunteer in Kindergarten. I felt so happy and energetic when I worked with the kids. Then I started volunteering in our Community school and taught the kids TAMIL language for more than 15 years. Now I do services to our community kids teaching about Culture, tradition, epics and moral stories in TAMIL language through Skype.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time outside of work?
As I said, I enjoy teaching the kids about our Indian culture, tradition and spirituality too. I also learn from them a lot. I feel so happy when I stay with them and have discussions.
Also, I am very much interested in Indoor and Outdoor gardening. I always enjoy taking care of my indoor plants and getting positive vibrations.