Welcome to Beyond the Bio, the series where we get to know our WRSPC staff a little better. Here are the answers to our 5 Beyond the Bio questions from WRSPC Executive Director Elisa Brewer-Singh.
Q1: Which Aspect of your work gives you the greatest sense of purpose or meaning?
I find the most meaning while connecting in with our community! Whether it’s at an event, a training, a third-party fundraiser or at our office, the opportunity to meet and engage with so many from our community is truly inspiring and humbling. I am also so thankful for each and every person who shares their story of resiliency and hope because we can learn so much when we genuinely listen. I’m often asked how I manage some of the difficult aspects of my job and it’s because of this community and my belief in hope!
Q2: What is one thing you are most looking forward to re-engaging in once physical distancing restrictions begin to lift?
Hugs! I have certainly missed the opportunity to share and receive comfort and support through a physical hug. This time has reinforced how social I am by nature and I am looking forward to the time when I can connect with family and friends in-person again (and hopefully not take for granted these opportunities moving forward).
Also, going out for sushi! My boys and I have been talking about how this might be our number 1 wish list item.
Q3: Name one place, community, or situation where you feel a sense of belonging or feel most at home?
Aside from my own home, one place that I have a wonderful sense of belonging and community with is my scrapbooking ladies group. I am thankful for the opportunity to share our stories, laugh and grow with each of these ladies and for their continued support of my journey through life.
Q4: What are some of you go-to self-care routines or stress-reducing habits that you’ve been utilizing during this pandemic?
Because I am such a social person, a large part of my self-care routine has been connecting in virtually with family and friends; I Facetime my parents pretty much daily!
I have also used this opportunity to go for slower walks with my husband, boys and dog; it’s amazing to see all the things that my boys discover out in our community and nature when the pace is slow enough to look around!
Finally, I absolutely love music and it’s ability to speak to a wide range of emotions I might be feeling at any given time. I will say that there have been many dance parties recently in our kitchen while cooking or baking!
Q5: If you decided to change careers and leave the mental health world, what would you do instead?
I would open a little flower shop complete with large windows. I love dreaming of the endless possibilities to explore creativity, nature and beauty while hopefully bringing a smile to others.
