Faces of CMHA: Minerva Sanchez, Senior Executive Assistant

Wednesday April 24th is Administrative Professionals Day. The day recognizes and celebrates the work of secretaries, administrative assistants and other office professionals for their contributions to the workplace. Today, we are profiling our amazing Senior Executive Assistant, Minerva Sanchez. Thank you to all our Administrative Professionals for all the hard work you do! 

1. What is involved in your role?

I support the office of the Executive Director as well as the Board of Directors. This means developing efficient processes, crafting communications and providing scheduling and agenda support. It is my responsibility that corporate and governance requirements are met on a timely basis. This could mean disseminating information to various departments or ensuring that a funder report is completed and submitted on time. I am also involved in corporate events and projects such as planning the all staff meeting, supporting the capital project for the building at 80 Waterloo Ave., Ride Don’t Hide, etc.

2. Why did you become involved in the mental health field?

After graduating from the University of Guelph I worked delivering social recreational programs for individuals with mental health concerns and individuals with a dual diagnosis. I then worked as an intake worker for 5 yrs. I switched into an Admin role nearly 7 years ago. My skills are well suited to working behind the scenes and providing support to those engaged in improving the healthcare system.

3. What brought you to CMHA?

I came to CMHA as a volunteer. I had the opportunity to work with Jane Fawcett and learn more about the SSAH program. It was a great experience!

I decided to apply for a permanent position because of the people who worked here and the organization’s mission. It was rewarding to work for an organization that was focused on improving people’s lives.

4. Have you always worked in mental health?

Throughout my University years I volunteered and was a “Peer Helper” in various roles related to Health Promotion, Mental Health was always a part of that. I worked in the Women’s Resource Centre and assisted in their event planning which focused on having a safe place for women on campus and connecting them to resources related to sexual health and supports needed due to abuse. I then worked at the Wellness Centre developing and delivering workshops across campus on mental health, stress management, sexual health. As part of this role I also collaborated in planning on campus events and health fairs as well as assisting students who came to the centre looking for resources and literature on a variety of topics.

5. How do you support people at CMHA in your role?

I support a very busy Executive Director and Board of Directors. I am here so they can delegate appropriate work to free them up to focus on the strategic initiatives and competing priorities they have on a daily basis.

6. What are you proud of during your time at CMHA?

I am proud to be part of an organization that strives to provide high quality mental health supports to our community. The organization is ever changing in an effort to meet the growing the demand, but also to anticipate change and be innovative.

If you are in crisis or wish to discuss whether CMHA has the right service for you, call Here 24/7: 1-844-437-3247 (HERE 247).

Follow the ‘Faces of CMHA’ series for a glimpse into the lives of the people who spend each day at the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington working to inspire and support people to achieve the quality of life they desire. Join our team, click here to view current employment opportunities at CMHA WW.