By Jessica Carreras
Maureen Jones just left her position as the social and enrichment coordinator of Affirmations LGBT community center in Ferndale last week after a several year stint. But don't think for a second that means you won't be hearing her name, or seeing her face around town. The 27-year-old Troy resident, who will be finishing her post-bachelor program in the fall at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, will still be a staple of the LGBT community – as an artist, a volunteer and a steadfast advocate of the movement.
1) You just left your position at Affirmations as social and enrichment coordinator. What did you get out of that position in the almost four years you worked there?
I have had the privilege to meet and work with so many amazing people, so I'm taking with me these great experiences and stories. Also, I'm taking with me a great set of skills that I acquired through coordinating social activities and from my work on the helpline. You'd be surprised how helpful the skills you learn from working on the helpline are in your every day life.
2) What was the best part of working with the LGBT community for a living?
There was always something happening! We are an exciting and diverse community. Above all, I loved getting to know the folks who come into Affirmations – hearing their stories and finding ways to connect them to the right program or service. I will dearly miss working with the young people who come to Affirmations. They are an incredible and talented group of folks.
3) How do you plan to stay involved in the LGBT community?
I have gained a very supportive queer family and a network of folks from being a part of Affirmations, and that's not going anywhere! I'm also excited to work with the Ferndale 115, a twice a month online newspaper detailing news and community events for the city of Ferndale. Also, don't forget to find me on Facebook!
4) What are your plans now?
I'm excited to begin a new journey. I'm currently looking for positions related to community art, recreation and program coordination. I'm also going to be able to go full time in the fall in a post-bachelor program for art education. I will also be helping spread the word about the Ferndale 115 and working part time at a video rental store in Royal Oak (oooh, come find me!).
5) How will your personal and work plans help you contribute to the community?
In relation to my new position, the Ferndale 115 covers all community events in Ferndale, so we will definitely be around and featuring news and stories for the LGBT community in Ferndale. I'm also excited to use my years of coordinating the Affirmations film clubs to my advantage at this video rental store (which may or may not be next to Trader Joes) and be the expert on LGBT films.
To learn more about the Ferndale 115, visit www.ferndale115.com.
