Molly Gruss
Albany,NY
Summary
A highly motivated and results-oriented professional with over six years of experience in the non-profit care sector. Possesses a Master's degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor's degree in Human Services, coupled with extensive experience in project management and resource development. Proven ability to develop and implement strategies that enhance philanthropy, and stewardship adhering to organizational needs. Skilled in leadership, communication, problem-solving, and data analysis. My passion is fueled by making a positive impact in the community and improving the lives of others.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Supervisor, Recreation and Community Engagement
St. Catherine's Center for Children
03.2022 - Current
- Leadership role in fostering positive relationships between the organization and community.
- Organize, develop and oversee community events.
- Strategic planning as it directly relates to needs.
- Streamlined operations for increased efficiency through regular process reviews and implementing necessary changes.
- Conducted needs assessments or surveys to determine interest in or satisfaction with wellness and fitness programs, events or services.
- Assisted with grant writing efforts aimed at securing additional funding for facility upgrades or expansion projects.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
Activity Coordinator of RTC
St. Catherine's Center for Children
11.2018 - 03.2022
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create comprehensive and meaningful programs tailored to individual needs.
- Managed budgets and resources efficiently, enabling high-quality events without exceeding allocated funds.
- Developed customized activity plans for diverse groups, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all participants.
- Developed and implemented themes and activities for children between ages of 6 to 13.
- Implemented creative problem-solving strategies when faced with unexpected challenges or changes in circumstances during planned activities.
Child Care Specialist
St. Catherine's Center for Children
04.2018 - 11.2018
- Contributed to a positive team atmosphere through open communication and collaborative problem-solving efforts.
- Created a safe and therapeutic environment for groups of diverse children with traumatic backgrounds.
- Responded promptly to emergencies or crises situations, implementing appropriate intervention strategies as needed.
- Maintained accurate records of client progress, incidents, and daily activities for effective case management purposes.
- Built and maintained rapport with clients and family members to facilitate trusting caregiver relationship.
Intern
Brighter Choice Charter School for Girls
01.2018 - 09.2018
- Developed strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues by maintaining open lines of communication and fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Implemented behavior modification strategies, resulting in improved self-regulation and classroom participation among students.
- Assessed student performance regularly using both formative and summative assessments to inform future lesson planning.
- Assisted in creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment that promoted emotional well-being and academic growth for all students.
- Helped students explore concepts with engaging, learning-focused activities.
- Worked cooperatively with other teachers, administrators, and parents to help students reach learning objectives.
Intern
Unity House
09.2016 - 01.2017
- Developed and implemented individualized treatment plans for clients.
- Coordinated advocacy services with other services internally, at hospital and in community.
- Conducted thorough assessments of client needs, connecting them with appropriate resources and support services.
- Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings aimed at addressing complex cases involving multiple service providers.
- Collaborated with other professionals to plan and coordinate care for clients.
- Enhanced communication between clients and providers through consistent follow-ups and progress updates.
Intern
Job Corp
08.2016 - 10.2016
- Processed documentation for employee actions such as new hires, grievance resolutions and terminations.
- Checked references for potential candidates.
- Scheduled and coordinated interviews between hiring managers and potential candidates.
- Developed and maintained HR policies and procedures.
- Responded to employee inquiries regarding benefits and other HR topics.
- Collaborated with department managers on workforce planning strategies to identify staffing needs within their teams accurately.
- Answered and redirected incoming phone calls for office.
Education
Master’s in Public Administration -
Excelsior University
02.2023
Bachelors in Social Science, Human Services -
Excelsior College
Albany, NY02.2021
Associates in Human Services -
Hudson Valley Community College
01.2018
High School Diploma -
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School
06.2016
Skills
- Program Development
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Leadership & Supervision
- Proficient in Google and Microsoft Software
- Resource Management
- Strategic Planning
- Community Engagement & Collaboration
- Financial Management
- Event Planning
- Nonprofit experience
Accomplishments
- Organizational Leader for EAC
- Big Sister at the Big Brother Big Sister of The Capital Region
- Award recipient for Robert E. Kinsinger Award
- Completion/Member of NEW Leadership New York Summer Institute (NLNY)
- CPR/First Aid certified
- Therapeutic Crisis Intervention certified
Timeline
Supervisor, Recreation and Community Engagement
St. Catherine's Center for Children
03.2022 - Current
Activity Coordinator of RTC
St. Catherine's Center for Children
11.2018 - 03.2022
Child Care Specialist
St. Catherine's Center for Children
04.2018 - 11.2018
Intern
Brighter Choice Charter School for Girls
01.2018 - 09.2018
Intern
Unity House
09.2016 - 01.2017
Intern
Job Corp
08.2016 - 10.2016
Master’s in Public Administration -
Excelsior University
Bachelors in Social Science, Human Services -
Excelsior College
Associates in Human Services -
Hudson Valley Community College
High School Diploma -
Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School