Staff Highlight: Danielle Verzosa
Spotlighting one of our amazing team members so you can learn more about the people who help make our organization what it is. This time, we’re chatting with Danielle Verzosa from Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House about their role as Community Engagement and Communications Coordinator, their passions, and a few fun facts!
What does Neighbourhood House Week mean to you, and what’s it been like being part of the organizing group?
Neighbourhood House Week, to me, is a celebration of diverse people coming together. This year, I had the opportunity to be part of the organizing team, and it truly made me feel that my voice mattered, especially in shaping the event to be more inclusive and accessible for everyone. I’ve really enjoyed the team we’ve built, and now we regularly seek each other’s feedback when planning activities in our own Neighbourhood Houses. I’m excited to help organize this event again next year and can’t wait to welcome even more people to join in this fun and meaningful celebration of community.
Tell us more about your connection to Neighbourhood Houses.
While I was on the #9 bus, heading home, there was a moment when I imagined myself working in the building across from KFC and Adria Import Car Service. At the time, I didn’t exactly know what Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House was, I just thought it looked like a nice building. It felt like an actual house.
Fast forward to 2021, during the height of the pandemic, I was thrilled to be hired as a Before and After School Care Assistant at Florence Nightingale. I adore children and love working with them, but I quickly realized that it takes a lot of energy to keep up with them!
Luckily, MPNH had just posted a Youth Worker position, and I was incredibly grateful for the opportunity to transition into that role. Working with newcomer youth has opened my eyes to so many things. They’ve completely transformed the way I view teenagers, and even life itself. I have deep respect for the experiences they carry with them, especially as they adjust to life in a new country, often without knowing the language.
Now, as the Community Engagement and Communications Coordinator at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House, I can proudly say that I’ve manifested my dream job, a role that blends my creative design expertise with the joy of planning thoughtful events for both our staff and community. And as I always say, I am where I am supposed to be, thanks to the people behind all Neighbourhood Houses.
What’s your go-to snack at work — the one that gets you through a busy day?
As a foodie, I love snacking on chocolates, and I also enjoy nuts and dried fruits. If I’m lucky, I’ll treat myself to some pistachio ice cream! The fun part is that my colleagues and I are known for roaming around different offices in search of snacks. 😋
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