Jamie Gunn serves as the Youth Development Leader at both St. Luke Catholic School and Northview Middle, but she has been in many programs since she started with AYS in 1995.
At that time, she had just graduated from Indiana University with a degree in elementary education. She was working as a substitute teacher when some friends mentioned AYS. After getting the job, she never looked back.
“I love working with kids,” Jamie said. “I always wanted to be that positive influence.”
In her thirty plus years at AYS, Jamie has seen a lot of changes, good and bad. She’s worked in AYS programs in districts where we no longer have a presence, and she’s been the first to serve in new programs when they’re just getting started.
“The mission is one that I truly believe in,” Jamie said. “I’ve stayed because I love what we do.”
Over the years, Jamie’s favorite part of being in programs has been the lasting bonds that she has built with families in our local community.
“I know you’re not supposed to have favorites,” Jame said, “but I can’t believe that some of the kids I’ve had in program are moms now.”
Even though she’s more than thirty years into her journey at AYS, she still heads into every program with a good attitude and an open mind.
“We’re here to be that positive person in a kid’s life,” Jamie said.
One of the reasons that Jamie feels she’s been able to stick around for more than 30 years is because of AYS’s commitment to paying staff a livable wage.
“Consistently receiving bonuses and cost of living pay increases has allowed me and my family to stay on level ground,” Jame said.
That being said, Jamie wants every person considering working for AYS to know, she’s not here for the money.
“I’m here because I love this job,” Jamie said, “and I want to be a positive person.”
If you’re a young person looking to get started in education, or you’re like Jamie and want to have a positive impact on the young people in your community, we would love to hear from you. Apply today at ayskids.org/careers.