Friday Feature: Raphael A. Tramble, LLMSW

From the heart
Raphael's story

Your name: Raphael A. Tramble, LLMSW

Your role at Volunteers of America Michigan: Senior Employment Specialist with Health Profession Opportunity Grants Program.

What brought you to this position? I was looking for a career that would allow me to work with veterans and families. It is my passion to motivate others to see their value and empower themselves.

What is your biggest takeaway from working with Volunteers of America Michigan? I love being able to watch the transformation from the moment someone walks into our office for orientation, to the moment they finish their training and graduate. There are a few participants who started the program around the same time I started in my position, and now they are almost done with classes and ready to obtain their LPN. I get to be a part of their journey, a new chapter in life. I love getting to watch as their happiness and independence grow.

What is your biggest challenge in this position? My biggest challenge is accepting that this program is not for everyone. After hearing the stories of possible participants, and seeing their struggles, I wish we could do this for everyone, but we try to point them in the direction of additional resources.

Where is your dream vacation spot? Pensacola Beach, Florida.

What is your favorite book? “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu.

How do you spend your time outside of the office? Writing poetry, my English bulldog and Yorkshire Terrier, and volunteering with after school programs for kids.