Story #81

Sarah Kimball

Sarah Kimball, Program Developer, BronxWorks Carolyn McLaughlin Community Center

A native of Massachusetts, Sarah Kimball relocated to New York while pursuing her Master of Public Health at Columbia University. A professor suggested Sarah consider applying for a position at BronxWorks as she quickly considered New York City her new home. In 2018 with her graduate degree in hand, Sarah joined BronxWorks as a Program Developer, reporting directly to Scott Auwarter, Assistant Executive Director.

"I love my job. This position allows me the flexibility to work with many different programs and focus on very varied tasks and projects.""

A self-proclaimed data nerd, Sarah has been an integral part of many metrics-driven initiatives including the implementation of Efforts to Outcomes (ETO), an agency-wide database and referral system. Sarah also serves as the project manager of Attendance Matters, a pilot program that assists families living in shelters by identifying and removing barriers that may impede their child's/children's ability to attend school.

Sarah's unique skill set and varied interests have made her an invaluable part of the BronxWorks staff. She is enthusiastic, inquisitive, and determined. Sarah enjoys the fast-paced atmosphere at BronxWorks and appreciates her working relationships with colleagues.

"My co-workers are great. I appreciate being a part of their work and sharing successes as our participants overcome challenges."

As the Bronx was thrust into the COVID-19 pandemic, the transition to remote working was an adjustment for Sarah. "I was so used to just going to a colleague's office or traveling to another site whenever I needed to," she says. These days, she is in the office part-time, and while her dog misses her at home, Sarah is grateful to be back on-site.

When Sarah is not working, she is an avid runner. She has completed three marathons including New York, Boston, and Chicago. Sarah is using this year to take a break from the rigors of marathon training but continues to run recreationally.

She is also optimistic when asked, "What's next for you, professionally?" With an undergraduate degree from Boston University in physiology and true determination to continue to work with underserved communities, Sarah is interested in expanding her work in public health and, specifically, epidemiology. "There is an incredible need in these areas, especially now," she states. No doubt, Sarah will continue to make her mark in the world of public health and social services.