Recently, we’ve been highlighting some of our amazing staff members who have demonstrated resilience and courage during the challenges presented by COVID-19. Our staff serves children and families in need across the nation, bringing care and safety no matter the season. These are important, essential services and our staff have been working diligently to keep everyone safe throughout this pandemic. A few of them have gone above and beyond—and we call them #SWKHeroes.

A #SWKHero is a Southwest Key employee whose co-workers have nominated as particularly motivating while we all help each other through COVID-19 awareness and prevention. Today, we’re proud to honor three more #SWKHeroes.

Congratulations to Alejandra Calderon, Stefanie Miranda and Lazara Arroyo! Thank you for all you do for the youth and families we serve.

“Stay positive and talk to someone you trust if you’re feeling down—or talk to a counselor!”

Alejandra’s Superpower

Unwavering Guardianship

Administrative Assistant — Headquarters

Southwest Key’s Austin HQ has become a much quieter place since the lockdown began, but Alejandra sees her work there as more important than ever. “It’s important to keep some sense of normalcy and continuity for the organization and our patrons. While I do miss the daily camaraderie with my co-workers, business must continue, and I look forward to the day everyone comes back.” As for her advice for getting through the challenge of COVID-19, she recommends leaning on people you trust or taking advantage of EAP services. 

“We need to take care of ourselves and each other to maintain a safe work environment for everyone.”

Stefanie’s Superpower

Steadfast Perseverance

Lead Security Monitor — Program 921

Safety has always been a priority and a passion for Stefanie. While she was nominated based on her willingness to put everyone’s safety as a top priority, she laid the credit for her success on her team. “Without my team I wouldn’t be able to accomplish much. It’s not just me, it’s a ‘we’ environment. So when I succeed, we all do.” Together with her team, she noted that patience and perseverance were key to strong leadership. “Being able to follow set guidelines and enforce them when needed is vital. Despite the push back, always maintain positivity and reassurance. Overall, knowing we are the reason everyone is in a safe working environment is gratification in itself.”

“As a leader, you must ensure the safety and security of the youth we serve, as well other Youth Care Workers. It’s so important to show our appreciation for their hard work and dedication they provide on a daily basis.” 

Lazara’s Superpower

Courageous Leadership 

Shift Supervisor — Casa Presidente 

Lazara’s known as a hard worker throughout Casa Presidente, leading her team throughout the challenges of the pandemic, to the point that one staff member called her “AWE-INSPIRING.” (Yes, in all caps.) She was quick to recognize her team’s accomplishments and feels that all of them deserve recognition alongside her. “Taking the chance to make a difference in so many lives is the most rewarding gift I can imagine. At the end of the day,” she said, “We are all Southwest Key Heroes.” 

Visit our Facebook page to congratulate these #SWKHeroes!