Gail Lamberth—Queens FACT Team
I started working at Federation in July of last year. I am the Program Assistant for the FACT (Forensic Assertive Community Treatment) team.
I am one of the first faces you see at our Richmond Hill site. It’s eventful and exciting most days. Though the FACT team meets with the individuals in the community, some are scheduled to come into the office for weekly groups. I kindly greet them with water or a cup of coffee and direct them to their scheduled group location. I provide assistance when individuals are in crisis either in person or on the phone until they are transferred to staff. I set up transportation to the site and make other appointments off-site as needed. I keep track of staff daily visits with client’s, track prescriber visits, sign for medication, track individual’s Medicaid status, you name it…I get it done.
I knew of Federation before I started working here. My sister was fortunate enough to receive services from Federation at their Babylon location. I have 5 sisters, and she was the oldest sister. I’m the 2nd to last sister. She was diagnosed with Schizophrenia later in life—in her forties. It was there the whole time but we never understood it. Once she was diagnosed, I became educated and then I was able to help navigate services for her. Over the years she struggled with paranoia and substance abuse. Sometimes she would accept help from others before me because of the paranoia…but I idolized her. Unfortunately, she passed away in 2013 from medical issues.
One of the things I respect about Federation is that they go out into the community and bring the services to the individuals to get them the help they need. As I was preparing for my interview with Federation, I went online and read their mission statement which describes the services and their philosophy. When you get here and actually see what they do to help people… it’s nothing short of amazing.
I have a very strong connection here because of my sister. I always look to be of service to others and help in any way I can. Helping people resolve any issue, even the little ones, makes me feel good. It’s my calling. Consequently, I’m also the peacemaker in my family.
Don’t take anything for granted about your mental, physical, or spiritual state because everyone is in a different position. Always be willing to encourage each other because without encouragement, you’ll stay stuck where you are. My Motto is, “be the change you wish to see in the world”.
Working at Federation is not only a career to me, but also a way that I give back to my community.