Michelle Polanco

• Lead food pantry and organization operations, ensuring organizational functionality and efficiency
• Conduct grant research and writing to secure essential funding for various programs
• Engage and manage a team of employees and volunteers to maximize program impact
• Develop and implement tailored programs for the senior population (age 55+)
• Provide clients with comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness information through seminars and support services
• Coordinate logistics for events and workshops, including registration, attendee tracking, materials support, and evaluations.
• Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.
• Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
• Trained staff during demonstrations, meetings, conferences, and workshops.
• Coordinated and prioritized required training courses for the employees .
• Brainstormed and implemented creative event concepts and themes.
• Developed detailed event reports, documenting all aspects of each event.

Provided recovery-oriented peer support as a Peer Support Specialist working alongside clinicians within a Community Response Team (CRT), assisting individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges and crises. Participated in community-based crisis response and co-response calls with law enforcement when appropriate, providing trauma-informed support, de-escalation, follow-up outreach, and care coordination. Connected individuals to outpatient treatment, peer support, and community resources; collaborated with providers and natural supports; maintained accurate documentation; and empowered clients to achieve greater stability, independence, and long-term recovery.

• Developed and coordinated an engaging activity calendar and promoted events
• Ensured discipline and safety while delivering fun and engaging experiences for participants
• Demonstrated excellent schedule management and adherence to safety protocols.
• Evaluated supplies and requested purchases to meet activity plans.
• Helped patients build and maintain interpersonal relationships, social skills, mental abilities, and confidence.

• Designed and implemented a comprehensive youth development program for children ages 3-16
• Managed planning and project processes to ensure effective coordination of learning and nutritional center resources
• Promoted nutrition and physical activity among low-income youth in Lawrence, MA
• Secured funding for summer nutrition educational programs
• Oversaw the development and maintenance of summer programs.
• Collaborated with business leadership to set priorities based on business needs, resource capacity and risk exposure.