Meet the Herd: Kadin
Meet Kadin, one of the Zebra Centre’s Case Navigators! She shares what makes her most proud to be a member of the Herd, what it’s like to be Moose’s secondary handler, and more.
Q: Tell us about your role as Case Navigator at the Zebra Centre.
Kadin: As a Case Navigator, I have the honour of meeting children, youth, and their families at the Centre and supporting them through the process. I am privileged to hold space for the extensive conversations that create mutual learning and understanding in person and over the phone during regular check-ins. I also keep myself busy with admin tasks and file updates to ensure families are updated in a timely manner and are kept in the loop at all times. I support with referrals to our partner agencies and create access to personalized resources via Initial Follow-Up calls to ensure our people are receiving the necessary care and support. I also am incredibly privileged to be a secondary handler for LFCDG Moose! Moose is an excellent addition to the Zebra Herd, and I work with him regularly in the centre through meet and greets with kiddos and families. Moose provides extensive emotional support and comfort and can light up anyone's face with his charming personality!
Q: What does a typical “day in the life” as Case Navigator look like?
Kadin: I often start my day with quiet time to plan what my day will look like. I find it incredibly crucial to have transition time to a mindset that will set me up to be successful in my interactions with families, coworkers, and partners. This allows me to remain resilient as my day can become quite busy. I am often found running around the centre, bouncing between First Contacts, phone calls and admin work. I try to provide as much support to others as I can, so I find it helpful to take frequent breaks to support my own wellness. I enjoy walking to Second Cup for a coffee, practicing skills with Moose, going out to the courtyard to swing or just chatting with folks in the centre.
Q: What do you love most about your role?
Kadin: I love that I can personalize resources and discussions based on individualized needs. This allows me to dig deep to find the best answers for families as they need them. I am always happy to do my research and curate customized resource lists that address concerns and areas of interest. I find it incredibly rewarding to be a supportive figure for those experiencing the challenges our systems provide, even if it is just for one person. I always imagine that if I were in a similar position, I would feel hopeful for someone to answer my questions and listen when I need help.
Q: What is your proudest moment at the Zebra Centre so far?
Kadin: I have been so lucky to be involved in various projects and extra tasks. From working on building resources with a team to being a secondary handler for Moose, I am proud to be involved in multiple areas at the centre. Among my own endeavours, I am proud to work alongside a team of incredible individuals who recognize and fill gaps to ensure the smooth sailing of the centre. With all of the folks from each team and all partners, Zebra is able to serve children, youth and families.
But my proudest moment would be whenever a family leaves our centre with hope. The Zebra Centre aims to be a supportive, safe space where Kids Can Tell. If I can answer questions and provide that support to the extent that can give hope for the future, I know I have done what I am meant to do.
Q: What motivates you to show your stripes (your why)?
Kadin: When you don't know where to turn or have questions that seemingly have no answers, it can be incredibly comforting to meet someone who can assist in finding those answers. I strive to provide care and support in any way possible and continue to educate myself on topics and issues relevant to our families.
When a child or youth comes to the Zebra Centre, as an advocate, I am able to find ways to provide support and comfort. There are many ways to get creative, from preparing snacks and juice to bringing a dog or a fidget to sitting on the floor to chat or play. The best part is that at the end of the visit, the kiddos get to stop at our Toy Room and pick out something to take with them. When we pull back the door, their face lights up, and I feel gratitude for all the people who make Zebra so special.
Q: Lastly, share a surprising or fun fact about you.
Kadin: I am a dancer with Viter Ukrainian Dancers and Folk Choir. I have danced with the company for 6 years and am the Fundraising Chair on the Board of Directors.