Amanda Koszelak: 211/LIFE LINE Operations Manager
Title and years with the organization:
I am currently the Operations Manager for 211/LIFE LINE. I joined the organization over 5 years ago as a Telecounselor on the overnight shift!
What do you enjoy most about working at 211/LIFE LINE?
For as long as I can remember I have felt a strong sense of purpose to serve the community and uplift those around me. 211/LL offers many opportunities to do this whether it's counseling someone who is in a difficult season of their life or connecting another to eviction prevention resources to keep them in their home. While this work is rewarding, it of course is not always easy and we motivate each other as a team to push through the difficult times. I have never experienced such a healthy and supportive workplace environment before my time with 211/LL. It is truly something special and I am proud to be a part of this team.
What activities do you enjoy in your free time?/What is a fun fact about yourself?
I used to live in NYC for a few years before my time with 211/LL. I like to joke that it gave me thick skin, but I will most likely be the first to tear up watching a show or movie (Home Town Takeover anyone?) I enjoy watching the latest Marvel and Star Wars shows/movies with my friends and spending time with my older sister and two nieces. When the weather is warmer you can find me on a boat, in a pool, or near any body of water!
Why is mental health awareness important?
Through the years mental health has been portrayed as something that shouldn't be discussed and to feel ashamed of. This stigma has created significant barriers to access compassionate, non-judgmental care and care that is proactive rather than reactive. Mental health awareness normalizes and humanizes living with a mental illness or experiencing a crisis. It promotes mental health treatment, reformed systems, and overall wellbeing. We can bring awareness to mental health and help to break the stigma by sharing our own stories and helping to educate others.