Ali Huber is excited to join Kadima as its new Development Coordinator.  As the Development/Event Specialist at the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan in Flint, she comes to Kadima with experience in development, volunteer management and event planning.

Written by: Allison Huber

I always knew I wanted to be involved with social justice issues in some way, but I wasn’t sure how. I thought, if you’re not going to be a lawyer or social worker, how is your work going to be impactful? During my undergrad, I had the opportunity to be a part of a student led force, fighting for sexual assault and consent education courses on my college campus. I was attending conferences and panels, sitting in on board meetings, meeting survivors, and conversing with students on the topic. During this time I actually felt as though my voice was being heard and others were learning about the issue.  

Upon graduation, I knew I wanted to do some work within my own community. I completed a term as an AmeriCorps VISTA, serving as community liaison for the local Food Bank, providing nutritional food options and resources to residents at the height of the Flint Water Crisis. Fortunately, I was then able to become a voice for Flint residents, providing some insight to others around me of what these people were actually going through.

Over the past few years, I have had time to reflect on my experiences. Increased understanding of social justice issues such as food insecurity, sexual violence, and access to treatment for mental illness all require immersion in the communities they affect. When educated on an issue like mental illness, we are able to have better perspective and empathy for those around us. Mental illness directly or indirectly affects everybody, and it is up to us to eliminate the societal stigma.

So this is where Kadima comes in. I am getting ready to close out my first week at Kadima, and I am already thrilled of what is yet to come. In my first few days, I have experienced moments of compassion and camaraderie. I know that these moments will only grow from here.
 
I want to become more familiar with the issues surrounding mental illness, which too often are disregarded. I am eager to build relationships with the Kadima family, including the clients. I am already seeing the impact this organization is having on those who are managing a mental illness. I am certain this will be an exciting and fulfilling journey!