Join us in congratulating Esmeralda Gonzalez on her Firestarter Award!

Esmer is an Administrative assistant at our Othello Clinic and has a get-it-done attitude. She has the desire to learn new skills, is constantly looking to improve and is currently working on getting her AA degree.

She is always willing to lend a helping hand and do what it takes to get the job done. Esmer is a great asset to CBHA and we are lucky to have her.

Get to know Esmeralda:

When did you start at CBHA?
I originally started in November of 2004. Then came back on February 19, 2018.

What is your title and job duties?
I’m an Administrative Assistant and the majority of my job consists of supporting our Executive and Leadership teams. I’m responsible for arranging trainings, travel accommodations, coordinating meetings for staff and assisting with site visits and tours.

I also work with our Board of Directors by sending out reminders, assisting in board meetings, taking meeting minutes and so on. There are also a lot of fun events that CBHA puts on for staff that I am responsible in helping coordinate like our All Staff events, luncheons and more.

What do you like best about working for CBHA?
I have always come back to CBHA because of the positive culture and the family atmosphere. Everyone is so professional, welcoming and always lending helping hand. CBHA also does an amazing job of recognizing their employees on the hard work they do. They engage with each employee and want to see them succeed. This is literally one of the best places to work!!

How has CBHA helped you in your career development?
CBHA has helped me grow professionally in networking with others. There are always learning opportunities and I am currently gaining my AA degree to further my career.

What has been your favorite project at work so far?
I really enjoy all the project that I work on. From helping and learning about the café to planning out our holiday luncheons and All Staff events.

What motivates you to wake up and go to work?
I enjoy helping others and love seeing them succeed. It gives me a sense of achievement and accomplishment. I also love the opportunities to learn and develop in my career path.

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.
I started at CBHA working in the Call Center, then entered the referrals department for a few years before I departed to spend time with my family. I have been with CBHA for about 17-18 years including working in some temporary positions. I have enjoyed all the knowledge I have gained throughout the years.

What would you do (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
If I wasn’t at CBHA I would be a teacher!

Favorite travel spot?
We don’t travel a lot especially because we are a family of 6, but we have been to Disneyland with our kids and they love it! I would love to take them to a warm beach to see what they think.

When you have 30 minutes of free-time outside of work, how do you pass the time?
I usually spend my “free-time” cleaning up after my kids. I do take one hour a month to get a much needed massage, which has been a great self-care routine.

Anyone you would like to thank or final words?
I would like to thank our CAO, Kelly Carlson. She has always seen things in me that even I fail to see at times. She gave me an opportunity back in 2004 when she originally hired me and has always challenged me and pushed me to be great. She will not take anything less than my best quality work. I would like to thank my husband and my parents. Without their support with the family, my time at CBHA would be much shorter. Thank you again for nominating me and letting me feel so blessed. I am so thankful that I work for one of the Best Places to work!