Staff Highlight: Heather Romero

We are so excited to kick off our arc programs Staff Highlight Campaign! Each month, we’ll be shining a spotlight on one of our incredible team members, showcasing their contributions, growth, and the positive impact they make within our organization and community. This campaign is a way for us to celebrate the amazing work our staff does and to help you get to know the faces behind our mission.

In this first post, we’re thrilled to share the story of Heather Romero, who has graciously shared her experiences with us. The responses to our questionnaire give a glimpse into her journey at arc, the rewarding aspects of her work, and how she contributes to creating thriving, inclusive communities.

Take a moment to read her answers and learn more about the dedication and passion that fuels our team.

Thank you, Heather, for being a part of arc programs and for all the amazing work you do!

Stay tuned for more staff highlights each month – we can’t wait to share more of the incredible people behind our work!

Questionnaire:

Name: Heather Romero (she/her/hers)

Job Title: Child Youth and Family Counsellor

Program: Family Based Treatment

Length of time within the organization: 5 years

What is one of the most rewarding aspects of your employment at arc?

Walking alongside brave families as they navigate the challenges and complexities of their lives and being able to witness the changes they make. Sounds cheesy but its true! 

How have you grown or developed personally or professionally during your time with arc? 

Since joining arc, I’ve prioritized deepening my skills and knowledge in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion. This journey has involved understanding my privilege as a white, cisgender woman and confronting the assumptions and biases shaped by systemic racism. While this work has been challenging and uncomfortable, it is also deeply meaningful. Its awesome watching the ripple of effects of this work in my personal and professional life which continues to motivate me.

How do you observe your role contributing to create thriving communities, free of systemic barriers and full of belonging, equity, and hope?

I have the privilege of working with children, families and the community and see this as an opportunity to provide information, engage in meaningful discussion, challenge systemic barriers and amplify diverse perspectives. I believe these efforts can foster increased belonging and hope for those that need it most. 

Can you share one of your biggest joys working in collaboration with other staff, community partners, or clients to achieve a goal? 

One of my biggest joys in working collaboratively with staff, community partners, and clients is the opportunity to build meaningful connections. Relationships and connections have always been at the heart of the work for me, I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of both a successful and fulfilling business and workplace. When we come together, with a foundation of trust, empathy, and mutual respect, we create a sense of unity and purpose that is unmatched. When this is established, excellent work happens! It’s incredibly rewarding to see how relationships can transform a project, allowing diverse perspectives to come together and fuel innovation, problem-solving, and collective achievement. Ultimately, when everyone feels heard and valued, the success we achieve is not just about reaching a goal—it’s about the relationships we’ve built along the way and the positive impact we’ve made together. That sense of collaboration and camaraderie is truly one of my greatest joys.

How has arc’s two-eyed seeing approach and commitment to decolonization contributed to your perspective and approach towards transformative reconciliation?

The two-eyed seeing approach resonated with me from the first time I learned of it. I have always believed that two things can be true at the same time, and this reinforces that. When we use both eyes together, we can create a new way of seeing the world that respects differences and encourages the importance of bringing multiple perspectives to the table. This seems far more collaborative and relational and is less oppositional in its approach. From a values perspective, this fits for me!

What inspires you to continue working in the social services sector?

I love the feeling at the end of the day when I can say with certainty, “I did something meaningful today”. That keeps me going.

Outside of work, what are your passions or hobbies that contribute to your overall well-being?

I love family, food, adventure, travel, and the outdoors. When I can combine all of them, I am a happy woman!

Is there anyone you would you like to recognize or give a shoutout to for their support, mentorship, or teamwork? Why?

I must give a shout out to my PD Courtney! I love the way she leads. I know that she leads from a person-centered place and values the “people” she leads as much or more then the competing demands. I respect and admire this and always know she had my back.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience with arc or your work here?

I respect arc’s desire to be an employer of choice, and their commitment to learning, growing and evolving in the workplace. As organizations, we will have never “arrived”, but its in the open stance and willingness to acknowledge the need for change that the growth happens.