Public Service Recognition Week is a reminder that each CalPERS member (whether they know it or not) is serving the public in some way, shape, or form.
For many of us in the public sector, it might be easy to get lost in the mundane day-to-day routine we all tend to fall into. And yet, CalPERS members never seem to lose sight of why they got into this line of work and stick to it.
We recently asked members — face-to-face at our in-person CalPERS Benefits Education Events — what public service means to them. Here’s what they had to say.
D. Lovette, Community Resource Manager, California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation
Provides religious and rehabilitative services to incarcerated persons
“Public service is important because this is our community. This is who we are, where we live. And supporting one another, helping one another, is actually why I do what I do — and I’m sure why you do what you do as well.”
Olivia S., Investigator, California Department of Social Services
Investigates incidents of elder abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse, questionable deaths, etc.
“Well, I think public service is very important. But you really have to do it from your heart and not because you’re getting paid for it …. You need to have a set of core values where you embrace that the people that you come into contact with are victims of other people who don’t have empathy for them. I usually am one of the few people who can really help them navigate life, improve their life situation — and keep them safe.”
Donna Navarro, Advisor, Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles
Helps clients apply for housing vouchers and works to keep them housed
“This is what I got my bachelor’s (degree) in — health and human services, drug and alcohol counseling, domestic violence. And a lot of our clients have been through those issues, and it’s nice to have someone that can relate to what they’ve been through.”
Scott Bauer, Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, City of Visalia
Facilitates converting wastewater back into potable water that replenishes groundwater
“You know, it’s just important to me to be involved with the community I work in. I’m providing a service — and like I said, I just enjoy the job in general.”
Tania Cortez, Special Education Behaviorist, Los Angeles Unified School District
Guides children with special needs through school
“Well, education in itself is making sure kids have the right path, find their way, and stay in school. So, I’m just there to make sure they have a good elementary school life. When you think back in life, you don’t forget your elementary school years. So sometimes you can make a big difference in just those early years.”
Marcie Jones, Nurse Evaluator, California Department of Health Care Services
Authorizes services for California Children’s Services
“I know this sounds cliché, but it’s just helping people — helping people that need it, that really need the services. And being on the front line of that.”
Elvia Verduzco (right), Employment Program Representative, Employment Development Department
Determines benefit eligibility for workers who quit or are terminated
“It’s an honor. You have these special gifts that you’re gifted with, and I feel like that was one of my gifts — public service. And I just give my all, and I just wear it like a badge. Like, I just want to help. And it comes to me so easy, and I just feel like forever I want to do that. I love it.”
Janeen Sanders, Program Technician, Covered California
Assists people unable to secure traditional health insurance in finding and signing up for affordable health care plans
“Public service is so important because people are social beings. None of us live completely independent. And public service helps others — we can help people on a day-to-day basis with whatever my job role is, and whatever they need. And if I can do that for somebody and put a smile on their face, and solve their problem, I’ve done my job.”
If you’re proud of your public service job, tell us what you’re doing that fulfills you. Email editor@calpers.ca.gov to submit your story, and be on the lookout for a follow-up.