Margarida Figueroa
Locust Grove,VA
Summary
Being dependable, transparent, and present for the community as a community relations deputy is essential. I successfully organized and managed multiple events and willing to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals. I focused on maintaining order and public safety, protecting people and property, and promoting positive community relations. My hard work and passion for getting the job done attitude makes a day at work easy.
It's all about the people, making a positive change.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Community Relations Specialist
Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office
Spotsylvania, VA
07.2017 - Current
- Enhanced community engagement by organizing and executing various outreach events and initiatives.
- Strengthened relationships with local businesses and organizations through regular communication and collaboration.
- Increased public awareness of company programs by creating informative content for social media platforms and newsletters.
- Improved community perception by addressing concerns in a timely manner and implementing valuable feedback into future projects.
- Developed strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to further the organization''s goals in community development.
- Managed volunteer programs, ensuring effective recruitment, training, and supervision of volunteers for optimal results.
- Collaborated with internal teams to align community relations efforts with the overall company strategy.
- Monitored the effectiveness of community initiatives through data analysis, refining strategies based on results.
- Spearheaded corporate philanthropy efforts, identifying opportunities to support local organizations financially or through in-kind donations.
- Facilitated open communication between the organization and the public by attending local meetings and acting as an ambassador for the company brand.
- Organized fundraising events that generated significant funds for community projects while raising awareness about company mission and values.
- Implemented innovative public relations campaigns to promote positive news stories about organizational achievements within the community.
- Coordinated employee volunteerism efforts, fostering a sense of pride and commitment among staff members towards their communities.
- Conducted thorough research on current trends in corporate social responsibility, using findings to inform future strategies.
- Provided exceptional customer service when addressing inquiries from community members, fostering goodwill towards the organization.
- Negotiated favorable terms with vendors for event sponsorships or collaborations that resulted in cost savings without compromising quality.
- Created comprehensive reports highlighting successes of different initiatives launched within the community.
- Empowered employees to take ownership of their roles in supporting various causes by facilitating skill-building workshops.
- Established long-lasting connections with community leaders and influencers, aiding in the growth of organizational networks.
- Utilized data-driven insights to optimize outreach strategies, maximizing impact on local communities while minimizing costs.
- Created great working relationships with different levels of city departments and other organizations.
- Liaised between program manager and worksite supervisors regarding administrative and operating requirements.
- Filed reports, documented content and outcome of individual coaching sessions, detailed individual assessments and demographics and offered insight into various issues.
- Supported smooth program functioning by handling diverse organizational or administrative needs.
- Organized and tracked related documentation contact information, communication logs, timesheets, evaluation forms, surveys and completion forms.
- Marketed offerings and services to community.
- Stayed within budget for marketing expenses.
- Developed and executed quarterly rolling calendar of events.
- Built, leveraged and shared positive relationships and partnerships with various external and internal stakeholders.
- Evaluated and recommended organizations, individuals and events through formal brand litmus test focused on identifying strategies.
- Built and maintained positive relationships with public by utilizing strategic plans.
- Supported public relations managers with writing, researching and preparation of materials
- Engaged in professional networking to maintain strong relationships with communications and media professionals to drive partnerships and effective dissemination of mass communications.
- Produced and distributed brochures, newsletters and press kits.
- Used various social media platforms for media and blogger outreach.
- Developed and implemented social media strategy to increase engagement and reach new audiences.
- Created and executed targeted PR campaigns to raise awareness of organization and initiatives.
- Managed media relations for organizations to produce successful results.
- Developed comprehensive media outreach plan to increase visibility of organization in local, regional and national markets.
- Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to identify key messages and create compelling content for press releases and other materials.
- Cultivated strong relationships with media representatives to secure widespread coverage and feature stories.
- Conducted media relations and responded to media requests for information.
- Prepared or edited organizational publications such as employee newsletters or stockholder reports for internal or external audiences.
- Facilitated press conferences and other outreach events to raise visibility of organization.
- Studied objectives, promotional policies or needs of organizations to develop public relations strategies influencing public opinion or promoting ideas.
- Coordinated media interviews with organization staff, board members and volunteers.
- Increased revenues and supported business goals by developing public relations strategies and campaigns.
- Drafted press releases detailing relevant newsworthy information and supporting brand image, and worked with news media to spread positions.
- Monitored media coverage and produced detailed reports to analyze impact of PR efforts.
- Wrote press releases and other materials utilizing SEO practices.
Crime Prevention Officer
Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office
Spotsylvania, VA
07.2017 - Current
- Enhanced community safety by developing and implementing crime prevention strategies.
- Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to address criminal activities and reduce crime rates in the community.
- Conducted security assessments for local businesses, providing recommendations for improvements in physical security measures.
- Improved public awareness of crime prevention methods through educational presentations and workshops.
- Organized neighborhood watch programs, fostering a sense of collective responsibility among residents.
- Developed strong relationships with community leaders, promoting open communication and cooperation on crime prevention initiatives.
- Assisted in resolving conflicts within the community by mediating disputes and facilitating conversations between parties involved.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of implemented crime prevention programs, making necessary adjustments to enhance outcomes.
- Utilized data analysis tools to identify trends in criminal activity and target areas for focused intervention efforts.
- Coordinated with social service providers to address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior within the community.
- Increased surveillance in high-crime areas by working closely with local law enforcement officers on patrol assignments.
- Facilitated training sessions for community members on personal safety techniques and self-defense tactics.
- Managed budgets allocated for crime prevention programs, ensuring efficient use of resources and maximizing impact on targeted objectives.
- Reviewed incident reports to track progress in reducing criminal activity within assigned communities over time.
- Assisted victims of property crimes by offering support services and guidance on navigating the legal system during recovery efforts.
- Created comprehensive reports detailing successful crime prevention initiatives, sharing best practices with other professionals within the field.
- Organized annual events aimed at promoting safety awareness among residents, such as National Night Out or Community Safety Days.
- Mentored at-risk youth through outreach programs, providing guidance and support in making positive life choices.
- Developed crime prevention policies in collaboration with law enforcement and community stakeholders, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing public safety concerns.
- Greeted guests professionally and courteously to cultivate welcoming atmosphere while making safety top priority.
- Remained calm, assertive, and mindful to think critically and problem solve during stressful situations.
- Responded quickly to incidents and assessed active situations for security concerns.
- Responded quickly to emergency situations to assess and deflect issues.
- Checked identification of persons entering and exiting facility to eliminate unauthorized visitors.
- Completed full building and grounds patrols to spot and investigate concerns.
- Secured premises and personnel by patrolling property and monitoring surveillance equipment.
- Oversaw daily monitoring and patrolled buildings, grounds, and work sites.
- Checked and verified photo identification prior to granting facility access.
- Patrolled and monitored premises in company vehicle, on bicycle, and by foot.
- Worked independently and collaboratively to resolve urgent issues to protect lives and property.
- Answered alarms, investigated disturbances, and contacted law enforcement personnel to escalate crises.
- Interacted assertively but non-confrontationally with personnel and general public.
- Adhered to established procedures and posted orders to enforce company rules, policies and regulations to general public.
- Promoted public awareness and community education programs to educate public on false alarm prevention and compliance.
- Responded to emergency calls to provide assistance to citizens in need.
- Recorded facts to prepare reports documenting incidents and activities.
- Identified, pursued and arrested suspects and perpetrators of criminal acts.
- Monitored crowded public areas and events to mitigate risk and promote safety.
- Monitored criminal activity in community to identify suspicious activity.
- Provided testimony in court proceedings.
- Assisted in special investigations and crime prevention programs.
- Trained other officers in firearms and self-defense tactics.
Deputy Sheriff
Spotsylvania Sheriff Office
Spotsylvania Sheriff Office
07.2017 - Current
- Improved community safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency calls promptly.
- Enhanced public trust by providing professional and compassionate assistance during emergencies.
- Reduced criminal activity through diligent surveillance, proactive policing, and collaboration with local businesses and residents.
- Conducted thorough investigations that led to the successful prosecution of numerous offenders.
- Collaborated with other law enforcement agencies for joint operations, resulting in improved efficiency and effectiveness.
- Handled high-pressure situations calmly and professionally, minimizing risks to public safety.
- Provided security at various community events, ensuring a safe environment for attendees.
- Assisted in the training of new deputies, sharing knowledge and experiences to help them excel in their roles.
- Prevented accidents by enforcing traffic laws and promoting safe driving practices among motorists.
- Maintained accurate reports and records, aiding in the proper documentation of cases for judicial proceedings.
- Served warrants efficiently while maintaining strict adherence to legal guidelines and procedures.
- Testified effectively in court, presenting clear evidence that contributed to successful case outcomes.
- Developed strong relationships with community leaders, fostering open communication channels for addressing concerns collaboratively.
- Utilized advanced technology tools for efficient information gathering during investigations and daily operations.
- Managed crime scenes meticulously, preserving vital evidence for forensic analysis and case resolutions.
- Investigated incidents and crimes, collected evidence, and recorded witness statements.
- Patrolled designated areas in patrol vehicle and on foot to identify security and safety issues.
- Gathered information and evidence to assist in solving crimes.
- Interviewed criminal targets and witnesses to uncover facts for verification and authentication.
- Implemented community policing initiatives to strengthen relationships with local citizens.
- Oversaw security for businesses by monitoring grounds and identifying suspicious activity.
- Maintained structure and security during court proceedings.
- Participated in continuous firearms proficiency, defensive driving and arrest technique training.
- Provided testimony in court proceedings.
- Recorded facts to prepare reports documenting incidents and activities.
- Monitored traffic violations, issuing citations as necessary.
- Identified, pursued and arrested suspects and perpetrators of criminal acts.
- Monitored criminal activity in community to identify suspicious activity.
- Built excellent rapport and working relationship with community to build trust and improve upon communication.
- Performed rescue functions at accidents, emergencies and disasters by directing traffic and administering emergency medical aid.
- Assisted in special investigations and crime prevention programs.
- Checked vehicle equipment for proper functioning prior to use.
- Obtained information from arrested subjects to conduct debriefings.
- Trained other officers in firearms and self-defense tactics.
- Thoroughly analyzed criminal information and processed crime scenes.
Security Clerical Assistant
Naval District Washington
Dahlgren, VA
01.2017 - 07.2017
- Streamlined office processes by organizing and maintaining efficient filing systems.
- Enhanced team productivity by providing administrative support and coordinating schedules for multiple departments.
- Ensured accuracy in data entry tasks, resulting in improved record-keeping and reduced errors.
- Increased department efficiency by managing correspondence, answering phones, and directing inquiries to appropriate personnel.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by promoting effective communication among team members.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing client concerns promptly and professionally.
- Supported human resources functions by processing new hire paperwork and maintaining employee files.
- Collaborated with other clerical staff on special projects, improving overall office performance.
- Prepared meeting materials and maintained accurate minutes, ensuring seamless communication among attendees.
- Managed inventory and ordered supplies as needed, reducing costs through diligent monitoring of available resources.
- Maintained calendar appointments for senior staff members, optimizing time management within the organization.
- Expedited project completion by assisting with research and gathering necessary information for various initiatives.
- Improved office efficiency by troubleshooting technical issues with computers and printers before escalating to IT support when needed.
- Coordinated travel arrangements for executives, ensuring smooth itineraries while minimizing expenses.
- Produced high-quality documents, presentations, and spreadsheets using Microsoft Office Suite applications.
- Facilitated timely mail distribution by sorting incoming letters/packages and preparing outgoing items for shipment.
- Processed invoices and expense reports accurately and efficiently to maintain up-to-date financial records.
- Maintained confidentiality of sensitive company information while handling sensitive documents and communications.
- Prioritized daily tasks effectively to meet deadlines consistently without compromising quality or detail.
- Greeted incoming visitors and customers professionally and provided friendly, knowledgeable assistance.
- Responded to inquiries from callers seeking information.
- Maintained organized files and stocked supplies to support team needs and maximize performance.
- Provided clerical support to company employees by copying, faxing, and filing documents.
- Interacted with customers by phone, email, or in-person to provide information.
- Composed sensitive, confidential reports and documentation.
- Received and sorted incoming mail and packages to record, dispatch, or distribute to correct recipient.
- Restocked supplies and submitted purchase orders to maintain stock levels.
- Maintained records of material flow, compiling and organizing related data.
- Routed business correspondence, documents, and messages to correct departments and staff members.
- Managed records and data transfer, ensuring traceability and improving operations through automated systems.
- Provided clerical support, addressing routine, and special requirements.
- Monitored office calendars to plan meetings, activities, and travel to maximize productivity.
- Managed relational database to store information for reference, reporting, and analysis.
- Coordinated shared Outlook calendar and scheduled meetings and events.
- Scheduled office equipment repair and maintenance to extend equipment lifespan and prevent unplanned downtime.
- Reviewed time sheets, prepared attendance reports and processed payroll for office staff.
- Screened visitors and issued badges to maintain safety and security.
- Mentored, trained and supported new staff members in office policies and procedures.
- Leveraged accounting software to manage expenses and keep track of finances.
- Recorded meeting minutes to provide historical account of actions, measure progress against strategic plan and drive accountability.
- Maintained company handbook to outline policies and provide insights to company mission and values.
- Assisted clients with using library catalogs and software, providing training and answering questions.
- Monitored shipments and mailing procedures to effectively distribute or file mail and solve shipment issues.
- Set up offices and put together all HR documentation for new staff members.
- Supervised and trained interns and created job manuals for support staff.
- Tracked and analyzed expenses for department's funds and budget and submitted updated reports.
- Managed daily data entry and kept clerical information accurate and up-to-date.
- Maintained and updated office records, both digital and physical.
- Collaborated with various departments to complete assigned tasks.
- Prepared and edited documents to produce precise, accurate and professional communication.
- Scheduled and coordinated travel arrangements for office staff members.
- Input data into spreadsheets and databases.
- Purchased and maintained office supplies.
Navy Police Officer
Naval District Washington
Dahlgren, VA
04.2015 - 01.2017
- Enhanced public safety by conducting routine patrols and responding to emergency calls promptly.
- Reduced criminal activity in assigned areas through proactive policing and community engagement.
- Conducted thorough investigations for various cases, leading to timely resolutions and justice served.
- Assisted in the development of crime prevention strategies, resulting in safer neighborhoods.
- Collaborated with other law enforcement agencies to solve complex cases and apprehend dangerous criminals.
- Maintained accurate case records and documentation, ensuring proper evidence handling and information sharing among relevant parties.
- Trained new officers on department policies and procedures, fostering a professional work environment focused on public service.
- Enforced traffic laws diligently, promoting road safety and reducing accident rates.
- Developed strong rapport with local businesses owners to address concerns about crime or vandalism affecting their establishments.
- Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices, maintaining a high level of expertise within the field of law enforcement.
- Supported supervisors with administrative tasks such as scheduling shifts and managing equipment inventory, increasing department efficiency and organization.
- Mentored junior officers on the importance of ethical behavior, accountability, and professionalism in their role as public servants.
- Talked regularly with citizens to establish rapport and become familiar presence in area.
- Answered emergency calls for help from citizens and business owners.
- Patrolled assigned areas to prevent and detect roadway crimes.
- Patrolled assigned areas to check homes, businesses, and public roads for signs of disturbance.
- Issued traffic citations and electronic tickets for violations of traffic laws.
- Checked vehicle equipment for proper functioning prior to use.
Licensed In-Home Daycare Provider
Margarida Figueroa
Spotsylvania, VA
05.2004 - 09.2014
- Enhanced child development by implementing age-appropriate learning activities and playtime routines.
- Maintained a safe and nurturing environment by adhering to health and safety guidelines, ensuring the well-being of each child.
- Increased parent satisfaction through regular communication about their children''s progress, needs, and daily activities.
- Supported early literacy development with engaging storytime sessions and interactive reading exercises.
- Promoted social skills among children by facilitating group activities and encouraging cooperative play.
- Assisted in the growth of motor skills through hands-on activities such as painting, drawing, and outdoor play.
- Developed individualized care plans for each child based on their unique needs, preferences, and developmental milestones.
- Organized nutritious meals and snacks according to dietary requirements, supporting healthy eating habits for all children.
- Conducted regular assessments of each child''s progress, adjusting care plans accordingly to optimize growth and development outcomes.
- Managed administrative tasks including record-keeping, billing, scheduling, and reporting to maintain an efficient daycare operation.
- Facilitated nap time routines to ensure proper rest for all children during the day while maintaining a calm environment.
- Provided ongoing support for families through parent education workshops on topics such as nutrition, discipline strategies, and sleep training techniques .
- Collaborated with other childcare professionals to share best practices and continually improve the quality of care provided at the in-home daycare.
- Implemented innovative behavior management techniques that fostered positive relationships between children within the daycare setting .
- Enhanced cognitive development by introducing problem-solving games and puzzles tailored to each child''s skill level .
- Encouraged creativity through art projects using various mediums like paint, clay, and recycled materials .
- Prepared children for kindergarten readiness by teaching basic math concepts, letter recognition, and writing skills .
- Maintained accurate records of children''s daily activities, observations, and developmental progress to share with parents during regular parent-teacher conferences.
- Organized and participated in field trips to local parks, museums, and libraries, providing enriching experiences that broadened children''s understanding of the world around them.
- Continuously updated professional knowledge by attending workshops, training sessions, and conferences related to early childhood education and care .
- Responded to inquiries from parents and guardians.
- Created safe and engaging learning environment for groups of diverse children with various learning styles.
- Developed lessons and activities to promote children's physical and emotional development.
- Prepared group activities to enhance socialization, communication and problem-solving skills for children.
- Helped children develop motor skills in preparation for preschool and kindergarten.
- Read stories, sang songs and facilitated creative play.
- Provided support and guidance to children in conflict resolution.
- Handled daily administrative tasks efficiently to minimize time away from children.
- Dispensed snacks and meals to children in accordance with nutritional guidelines.
- Encouraged children's emotional and social development.
- Monitored children's activities to verify safety and wellbeing.
- Instructed children in crafts and other activities to promote gross and fine motor skills.
- Implemented daily routines and activities to stimulate and engage children.
- Assisted in potty training and toilet hygiene.
- Logged information regarding naps, feedings and any medications administered.
- Used positive reinforcement techniques to promote patience and other good behaviors in children.
- Documented children's growth and development.
- Created and implemented activities to promote language development.
- Maintained group discipline through positive reinforcement, behavior modeling and collaboration with parents.
- Worked closely with family in developing and implementing educational and recreational activities.
United States Marine
US Government
USA
11.1995 - 11.2003
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend and holiday shifts.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems.
- Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
- Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Bachelor of Human Resources Management
American Public University, Human Resources Office
West Virginia12.2022
Skills
- Event Coordinator
- Community Relations
- Public Relations Strategies
- Promotions and Advertising
- Partnership Building
- Relationship Building
- Community Outreach
- Public Speaking
- Public Relations
- Leadership Qualities
- Interpersonal Communication
- Crisis Management
- Marketing Communications
- Partnership Development
- Campaign Execution
- Volunteer Management
Languages
Portuguese
Limited Working
Spanish
Professional Working
Timeline
Community Relations Specialist
Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office
07.2017 - Current
Crime Prevention Officer
Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office
07.2017 - Current
Deputy Sheriff
Spotsylvania Sheriff Office
07.2017 - Current
Security Clerical Assistant
Naval District Washington
01.2017 - 07.2017
Navy Police Officer
Naval District Washington
04.2015 - 01.2017
Licensed In-Home Daycare Provider
Margarida Figueroa
05.2004 - 09.2014
United States Marine
US Government
11.1995 - 11.2003
Bachelor of Arts - Bachelor of Human Resources Management
American Public University, Human Resources Office