Meet Our Team: D’Moria Santos

 

Working at DePaul is more than a job – it’s a passion! Learn more about how D’Moria Santos, Program Manager at the True North Apartments in Rochester, has found satisfaction, personal growth, and the ability to advance professionally as a member of DePaul’s culture of caring.

How long have you worked at DePaul and at which site(s)? 

I have worked at DePaul for three years, next August will make four years. I worked at Parkside and now I work at the True North Apartments.

What role(s) did you hold at Parkside? What was your experience like working there?

My experience as a Residential Service Coordinator (RSC) at Parkside opened a new level of compassion for me, assisting people who struggled with so many things and/or had no support. I worked in the medication room, covered the front desk, and assisted with other departments as needed. Working with over 70 unique personalities helped me build character as each person carries their own story.

How would you describe a typical day in your role as the True North Program Manager?

Currently my days consist of screenings, reaching out to sources for information on their referrals, and meeting with program tenants that have moved in to ensure they know staff are here to support them.

What’s an example of a challenge you helped solve that had a meaningful impact on a resident or site?

I supported so many people who had a lot of health concerns including those who neglected their health for many years. I continued to encourage, advocate and meet with them weekly or more if needed to show support and consistency on working on a better quality of life. With my dedication, advocacy, and encouragement, a lot of people began going out of the building, attending appointments, and getting treatment.

Your father used to work at DePaul Administration! What kind of impression did DePaul leave on him?

DePaul provided my father with valuable experience in his field which he was able to carry forward throughout his career. He spoke positively about his time with the organization and the professional relationships he developed while working there.

What inspired you to seek employment with DePaul?

While searching for another employment opportunity, I came across DePaul on Indeed. Seeing the organization brought back positive memories from my childhood, when my father would talk about his work at DePaul and the positive relationship he had with his supervisor. Those memories encouraged me to apply. I was also looking for a position that offered morning hours and flexibility, which I found appealing about the opportunity at DePaul.

My father was excited when I told him I was working at DePaul. He immediately said, “Yeah, I worked there years ago,” and asked if Mark Fuller was still with DePaul. He wondered if Mark would remember him and spoke highly of him, saying that he was a good person to work with. My father hoped that I would have a positive experience and opportunities to grow within DePaul, especially knowing some of the challenges I had experienced while working at another agency.

What has your experience been working with DePaul?

My experience with DePaul has been very fulfilling and rewarding as I see the lives I positively impact on a day-to-day basis. DePaul has given me the tools to add onto my experience in human services. I have come across some challenges and advocated for myself. I continued to work hard and received a promotion this June from RSC3 to a Program Manager II.

Tell us about your family, pets and/or support system!

First comes God and my two amazing sons who have helped mold me into the person I am today. My spouse and a few family members are my support system.

What are some of your favorite ways to spend time outside of work? 

Church, spending time with my family, sports with my boys as I’m now an all-around sport mom, traveling when I can, making candles, reading, and being a mentor.

 Do you have a favorite quote or motto that inspires you?

People, places, and things.

Why might others find fulfillment and success working with DePaul?

Others will find fulfillment and success working with DePaul as this agency provides plenty of opportunities to grow and excel. DePaul has some great people who care about what they do; it’s not just a job. If someone enjoys working with people, giving back, and has compassion, this would be a great place to work.