Friday Feature: Joy Suits

Positive impact
Joy's story

Your name: Joy Darlene Suits

Your role at Volunteers of America Michigan: Community Administrator, Delta River Senior Village (the 2019 Small Property of the Year!!!!!)

What brought you to this position? I am a licensed teacher in Illinois, but when my husband moved to Michigan to pastor a church, I discovered Michigan and Illinois are not reciprocal states. Before becoming a teacher, I had spent 7+ years in property management so it was a natural return transition. Volunteers of America Michigan offered a chance to give back to others while earning an income.

What is your biggest takeaway from working with Volunteers of America Michigan? Every day I have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of those I service and engage. I try to make my little part of the world a better place.

What is your biggest challenge in this position? Because my property is small, I have to wear so many hats. I feel insufficient to the tasks that are not in my comfort zone, but am blessed to have colleagues and friends who have my back and give me advice and guidance.

Where is your dream vacation spot? I have been fortunate to visit 22 countries, so I find beauty and adventure everywhere. Ideally, I would like some place warm with a completely private beach, white sand, palm trees, soft breeze and crystal blue waters.

What is your favorite book? Non-Fiction: The Holy Bible KJV. Fiction: “You Are Special” by Max Lucado.

How do you spend your time outside of the office? My local church weekly and travel to church conferences in other states quarterly. Chloe & Dominick our two tiny toy poodles. Cooking. Writing classes. Husband and daughter.