Talent Tribute: Shannon Sanchez

Our Talent Tribute Monthly Feature is designed to celebrate the phenomenal staff that serve our Members.

Since joining VALLEYLIFE in 2007, Shannon has built an impressive career dedicated to supporting the individuals we serve. Her journey began as a Job Coach after a Member's parent encouraged her to apply and work with her daughter. Over the years, Shannon advanced through several roles within the vocational program, serving as a Job Developer and later as Warehouse Supervisor. After a brief year away from the organization, she returned to VALLEYLIFE in 2020 as a DSP I and has since grown into her current role as Supervisor of Brown Group Home.

Caring for others has always come naturally to Shannon. Prior to joining VALLEYLIFE, she spent nine years working with children in a daycare setting and also gained experience in senior care. What she enjoys most about her work is building relationships with Members and their families and knowing she has made a meaningful difference in their lives.

Shannon with her family.

Outside of work, Shannon is known for her talent in the kitchen, transforming everyday ingredients into memorable meals for her family. Her passion for cooking has even led her to lend a hand in VALLEYLIFE's Healthy Prep Kitchen from time to time. Above all, Shannon is a proud wife, mother, and grandmother who brings compassion and dedication to everything she does.

We sat down and asked Shannon about her VALLEYLIFE experience as a whole, and this is what she had to say.

1. How would you describe your ideal day at VALLEYLIFE?

If everything went perfectly, everything would go smoothly getting Members ready to go to their program. I'd get them there without any traffic, and there would be no issues dropping them off. If there were appointments, they would all go smoothly, and I'd be able to accomplish everything I set out to do that day.

2. What has your time at VALLEYLIFE taught you over the years?

I'd have to say I've learned a lot about patience. My time at VALLEYLIFE has taught me how to work with my Members and their different personalities, as well as my staff and the people around me. I've learned how to approach people in the right way and to be more understanding.

3. Can you tell us what you enjoy most about interacting with Members?

I've really enjoyed getting to know the Members and learning what they're all about. It's something I enjoy immensely. I love coming in every morning and having Charlene run up to give me a hug, Bryan saying hello, or Johnny wishing me a good morning. They make the start of my day fantastic. Even if I come in not feeling ready for the day, I walk through the door, and they completely change that for me. My favorite part is simply being around them.

4. What skills or qualities do you think are most important for success in your position?

To be successful, you need patience. That's really important. You also need understanding and appreciation. It's hard to describe everything you need because it's about so much more than just working with my three Members. I think it ultimately comes down to being a positive person because your positivity can rub off on even the crankiest person, whether they like it or not.

5. Lastly, what do you hope to accomplish or learn in your future at VALLEYLIFE?

I feel like I've accomplished a lot during my time at VALLEYLIFE, from starting as a Job Coach to becoming a Group Home Supervisor. But one thing I'll always strive for is making sure my Members' needs are met. It can be challenging at times, especially when working with doctors and navigating different situations, but my biggest goal is to be the best advocate I can be for my Members. I want to stand up for them when others can't or won't, and that's what I consider my greatest accomplishment. I just want to be the best I can be for them.