Each staff member at the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches (ASYR) makes a big impact on the children who call the Ranch home. Kirsten Harvey, Transportation Coordinator and Receptionist, is no exception. Kirsten began working at the Ranch on February 3, 2020.
About Kirsten
Before joining the Ranch staff, Kirsten worked at Sherwood Urgent Care for over two years as a medical assistant. Prior to that, she worked at a pharmacy as a pharmacy tech. These positions not only helped her build experience in billing and administrative skills. They also helped her become a customer service expert. She gained understanding in how to maneuver difficult conversations and interactions, too.
In addition to her experience in the medical field, Kirsten has worked directly with children. She worked in childcare settings for three years. Working behind the scenes to help children who call the Ranch home feels fulfilling to Kirsten.
“Several factors influenced me to accept this position. I desired the opportunity to expand my skills and knowledge in a different atmosphere. The location of the ranch is close to home. Finally, after completing my interview, I felt this was the position best suited to my future goals,” Kirsten shares.
What Kirsten does at the Ranch
At the Ranch, Kirsten wears multiple hats, as do all Ranch staff members. She corresponds regularly with the Department of Transportation and maintains proper documentation for Ranch vehicles and drivers. Kirsten enters data, processes mail, and helps maintain the donor database. In addition, she communicates regularly via phone and email with donors, community members, houseparents, and others who have questions and needs.
Emily Ives, Business Manager at the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches, serves as Kirsten’s manager and collaborates with her on a daily basis.
“Kirsten is a ‘Get It Done’ type of woman. When she starts a project, she makes sure everything is done correctly and in a timely manner. She also anticipates things we need to do which I really appreciate. She is a pleasure to work with and helps me keep my head on straight,” Emily dotes.
Kirsten shared that she “loves it here at the Ranch! It truly is a blessing being able to come to work everyday doing something you love to do. Working with great people is my favorite part. Everyone is positive, encouraging, and love what they do.”
Kirsten’s dream for children at the Ranch
When asked what one additional gift she would like to give to the children at the Ranch, she paused.
“The Ranch provides the children who live here with everything they need. But if I could wish anything, it would be that the children here had home lives that would have prevented them from having to come live at the Ranch in the first place,” she reflects.
Kirsten’s caring heart is what makes her such a perfect fit for the Ranch.
The next time you call the Ranch, maybe your interaction with Kirsten will be a little sweeter knowing more about the person behind the voice on the phone.
Thank you for your continued support in ensuring that children at the Ranch have safe, secure, loving homes. To donate to the Ranch today, click here.
This article is the first in a series of staff spotlights featuring staff members and describing the roles they play here.