Isela Gamez-Valadez
La Habra
Summary
A dedicated and compassionate youth and adult worker with over 20 years of experience, skilled in fostering tailored programs, building appropriate relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, and creating safe, inclusive environments to support their growth; proven ability to collaborate with families and community partners to provide holistic support and advocacy.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Refugee Resettlement Worker
Crittenton Services for Children and Families
Fullerton, CA
01.2020 - Current
- Supervise and support children placed in residential care.
- Transport and support children in various activities or appointments.
- Engage with children in activities that are both a social and learning opportunities to advance their skills.
- Maintain a clean and safe living environment.
- Administered and documented medication as prescribed, ensuring compliance with medication protocols.
- Participate in crisis intervention and de-escalation, ensuring the safety of children and staff.
- Assist children in setting and achieving personal goals related to independence and life skills.
- Led team in implementing safety protocols to enhance work environment for children.
- Monitor compliance with regulatory requirements to ensure quality service standards were met.
- Followed instructions and procedures to complete assigned tasks.
- Maintain work areas by cleaning and straightening for maximum productivity and safety.
- Establish strong working relationships with clients through excellent communication skills, fostering long-term partnerships built on trust.
- Improve team morale and productivity through effective communication and active listening skills.
Bilingual Youth Counselor
David & Margaret Youth and Family Services
La Verne, CA
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Provided direct care and supervision to a diverse group of residential youth, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Maintained accurate documentation of residents' progress, behaviors, incidents, and interventions in accordance with agency policies.
- Participated in regular staff meetings and trainings to enhance knowledge of best practices in youth counseling and trauma-informed care.
- Supported residents in daily living activities such as meal planning/preparation, personal hygiene routines, and medication management.
Deputy Juvenile Correctional Officer II
Orange County Probation Department
Orange, CA
03.2002 - 08.2019
- Maintained security and order within the correctional facility, ensuring the safety of staff and juveniles.
- Enforced rules and regulations by monitoring activities, conducting searches, and responding to incidents in a calm and professional manner.
- Supervised youth movement during daily routines such as meals, recreation time, visits, and medical appointments.
- Documented all incidents, disciplinary actions, and behavior accurately in written reports.
Education
Bachelor's degree - Human Services with an Emphasis on Mental Health
Cal State Fullerton
Fullerton, CA12.2007
Skills
- Problem Solving
- Time Management
- Patience and Adaptability
- Cultural Sensitivity
- Spanish
- Conflict resolution
Timeline
Bilingual Youth Counselor
David & Margaret Youth and Family Services
05.2023 - 08.2023
Refugee Resettlement Worker
Crittenton Services for Children and Families
01.2020 - Current
Deputy Juvenile Correctional Officer II
Orange County Probation Department
03.2002 - 08.2019
Bachelor's degree - Human Services with an Emphasis on Mental Health
Cal State Fullerton