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How long have you been at RTR? What roles have you had within RTR? What are some goals you have for your Program in Marshfield? I have worked for RTR since we became RTR in July 1989. I was a program manager at a residential program in Norwell until June 1, 1996. Then I opened a 2 apartments program in Milton as their program manager. In 1999 I became a program coordinator and oversaw three residential programs. One in Milton, one in Marshfield and one in Scituate. In 2004 the program in Scituate became a duplex. In July of 2010 I became the director of transportation and relief. At the current time I oversee our relief department of about 200 employees. I hope to see us become able to provide some additional services – offering counseling services, medical services – those are dreams. It would also be wonderful to offer childcare for our staff, which is also a dream but would make the lives of our staff easier. Why did you come to work at RTR? Why the change from youth to adult? What and how does RTR impact the lives of individuals? Maybe talk about how the Marshfield OPTS gives those with behavioral issues an alternative solution. I came to work at RTR because Cardinal Cushing School and Training Centers stopped providing adult services. I started for them in September 1981 when I moved to Marshfield from western NY state. I have worked in a secondary class for adolescents with I.D. I found the classroom setting too limiting. I feel the services we provide at RTR assist the people to become more independent. I feel there were times we promoted independence that was more difficult for families to do. We have both day programs and residential programs that offer supports to assist people in home and work settings to learn coping skills in dealing with their behavioral issues. We allow people to be more accepted by society in general. What is your favorite thing about working at RTR? What are some of your favorite parts to each role that you have had at RTR? I think my favorite part of working with RTR is it offers me opportunities to learn something every day, to teach others and to impact peoples lives. I feel like what I do makes a difference. I was able to go camping with residential programs. I watched the people I support grow be first time campers. They came to look forward to camping. What would you want someone to know about RTR? What parts of RTR would you like to emphasize to people who might consider joining the RTR team? We are someplace where you can work that is rewarding. You have a chance at moving up in our agency. We support staff and value our staff. We offer some fantastic opportunities for education and professional growth. Fun fact (favorite movie, favorite food, favorite vacation)? Hobbies outside of work? Maybe your trip to Aruba or Punta Cana, favorite adventure while there? I am a transplanted New Yorker. When I started working in adult services, I told people this was my part time job until I found a real job. I quickly learned this was not just a job but also an avocation. 10 by Cheryl Tappa, Development Associate, RTR Allison Meyer A Special Interview with a long time RTR staffer