Meet Calvary’s Community Engagement Coordinator

Arielle Baker became the newest addition to Calvary’s team when she started as our Community Engagement Coordinator last month. Volunteers and donors will get to know Arielle very well as she oversees volunteer opportunities and the in-kind donation program. Prior to working at Calvary, Arielle helped start a grant writing firm in Washington, DC called Elevate. Please welcome Arielle to Calvary!

How did you hear about Calvary and what motivated you to apply for the job?
I originally found the job post on Idealist but as soon as I started researching Calvary I knew it was a special place. I love people and working with people, so I was excited to work closely with the volunteers, donors and residents. The intentional and creative connections between Calvary’s work and the surrounding community got me especially excited about the job.

What have you enjoyed most about your work so far?
I have really enjoyed learning about the history, stories and future of Calvary. I have been extremely impressed with Calvary as an organization. I have worked with many nonprofits in the past that don’t have the intention and strategy that Calvary does. I am enjoying sharing Calvary’s successes and stories with my friends and family. And, of course, I have loved meeting all of our residents, volunteers and donors.

Is there any upcoming project or event you are especially excited about?
We have some volunteer groups coming to make the holidays very special for our residents. I’m excited to get in the holiday spirit while finding ways for volunteers to make Calvary feel festive!

How would you describe volunteers at Calvary?
I am just getting to know many of the volunteers and I look forward to meeting more of them, but I’ve already been so impressed with their level of commitment. It’s so exciting to see how they use their passion to really make a difference in the lives of our residents and in DC.

Share a fun fact about yourself!
I am scuba certified – I dove the island of Bonaire last summer and look forward to exploring new reefs in the future.