Sharon Mandel
St.Louis Park,MN
Summary
Dynamic Spanish,bilingual advocate experiencedin creating a welcoming environment while effectively connecting a wide variety of peoplewith essential services and effect
Thrives in client facing fast paced environments and adapts to dynamic demands, showcasing proficiency in multitasking, communicating with cultural sensitivity,and problem-solving. Reliable and flexible, consistently meeting evolving needs of clients and team members.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Youth and Family Advocate
The Bridge for Homeless Youth
02.2025 - 02.2026
- Conducted thorough screenings of youth to determine program eligibility through phone and in-person assessments.
- Collected onboarding data and orchestrated youth orientation sessions for program integration.
- Assisted in connecting individuals with essential services by working alongside police, parole officers, therapists, family members, and school counselors.
- Documented comprehensive case notes to ensure accurate record-keeping.
- Address critical and emergency needs for food, clothing, financial assistance, and transportation
- Managed inventory by ordering and restocking supplies for shelter operations.
Bilingual Paraprofessional
Minneapolis Public Schools
Minneapolis, MN
04.2004 - 10.2023
- Facilitated positive outcomes for youth and families with critical needs, serving ages 6 months to 21 years.
- Enhanced educational support for English language learners and students in special education, fostering inclusive learning environments.
- Provided real-time interpretation to enhance communication during parent-teacher conferences and spontaneous meetings.
- Translated educational materials for Latino families to, enhance understanding of online learning platform usage during quarantine. (Nellie Stone Johnson,Elementary 2020-2021)
- Served as primary greeter during renovation period, maintaining positive visitor experience despite restricted access to main office. (Anderson United community school 2017–2018.)
- Completed two semesters of Somali language and culture coursework through Minneapolis Community Education to foster better relationships within the Somali community.
Building Supervisor
YWCA of Minneapolis
Midtown And Downtown
09.2003 - 02.2005
- Monitored and assessed building premises consistently to identify and mitigate potential safety and security risks for members.
- Adhered to emergency protocols, facilitating prompt and effective crisis management.
- Prepared and arranged necessary equipment to facilitate successful sporting and special events.
HIV Testing Counselor
Access Works Harm Reduction Sisters
Minneapolis, MN
09.2000 - 09.2001
- Implemented trauma-informed practices to deliver HIV testing and counseling services to intravenous drug users and high-risk populations.
- Studied effective stigma reduction techniques and implemented warm referral practices to improve client engagement.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Spanish Language, Literature, And Culture
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, MNSkills
- Stays highly organized in a busy office atmosphere
- Community referrals
- Trauma-informed care
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Languages: Fluent Spanish & English (Written/Spoken)
Timeline
Youth and Family Advocate
The Bridge for Homeless Youth
02.2025 - 02.2026
Bilingual Paraprofessional
Minneapolis Public Schools
04.2004 - 10.2023
Building Supervisor
YWCA of Minneapolis
09.2003 - 02.2005
HIV Testing Counselor
Access Works Harm Reduction Sisters
09.2000 - 09.2001
Bachelor of Science - Spanish Language, Literature, And Culture
University of Minnesota