We were lucky to catch up with Young Anderson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Young with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I have parents who immigrated from Seoul, Korea in 1974 on a special Visa for Ministers. They came to a new country with a 6-year-old, 3-year-old (me) and a 6-month-old. They did not know language, had little money and came for the American Dream. My childhood memories are of my parents working late hours, every holiday and pushing every day to provide. Some of the businesses they had were clothing stores, drive inn restaurants, grocery stores, dry cleaners. They grew bean sprouts and made tofu and currently in their 80’s farming Korean fruits and vegetables.
My dad went to his primary doctor to be told to be a direct admit to the hospital. He was scheduled for a triple bypass. This was his first time in the hospital. We had to hide his shoes and clothes so he wouldn’t leave the hospital. He had a successful surgery and once discharged to go home he snuck to go to his business. This is the example I had of working hard, pushing through and being a strong person.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I work with families who are experiencing houselessness in Memphis, TN. My position has allowed me to be supportive to parents and children who have little and sometimes no support. My days can start with holding a newborn, teaching a class on Decision Making and Financial Literacy to providing transportation for a parent to their first day of work. I have always had a career in helping children and families. I started my career in non- profits as a child life specialist in several pediatric hospitals, early childhood trainer, assistant director for China adoption program, foster care trainer and counselor. I never said I wanted to work with the houseless but it found me. I learn everyday how to best help, encourage and give hope for their future. I have recently been motivated to consider the best way to help and not enable or harm. I believe many times families need all the services like food, clothing, job seeking skills and support of childcare. I want to focus and help our families to move towards independence and building a relationship with their community.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
The helping field is one that is so rewarding yet challenging. I have learned and re learned boundaries are essential. It is vital to protect your boundaries in order to protect your heart.
It is important to be creative and think of options and ideas that are not typical or ordinary.
Building trust is the first step when working with families- do what you say you’re going to do.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
When Helping Hurts How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert
This book challenges me to the core of whether I am hurting or helping. Do I unintentionally reduce people who need me or help to fulfill my own need to accomplish something. The system penalizes people for working by taking away benefits for every dollar they earn. There are times when people need services but I need to help people get engaged in their communities. I want to help families leave the Dorothy Day House engaged and building community.
Contact Info:
- Website: Dorothydaymemphis.org
