Friday Feature: Tyler Sisson

Capacity for change
Tyler's story

Your name: Tyler John Sisson

Your role at Volunteers of America Michigan: Senior Employment Specialist for the Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program.

What brought you to this position? I was originally brought on at Volunteers of America Michigan as an Intern in the Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program while I was finishing my degree at Grand Valley State University. After my internship, I was hired in as an employee in the Homeless Veteran Reintegration Program, under Steven A. Ward, my mentor, my rock, my supervisor, and leader!

What is your biggest takeaway from working with Volunteers of America Michigan? The biggest takeaway from my job is when a veteran obtains what they would describe as their “dream job” and they thank you for helping have a part in getting that job. Knowing that there are veterans out there who appreciate the work that you put forward and having the capacity to benefit someone’s life. Other takeaways would be the coworkers that I get to interact with and build relationships with.

What is your biggest challenge in this position? The biggest challenge of my job is monitoring for burnout. The job position I am in has a lot of freedom and it is easy to take on more responsibility than is realistic.

Where is your dream vacation spot? Anywhere not in the office and preferably out of country.

What is your favorite book? The Beautiful Poetry of Donald Trump.

How do you spend your time outside of the office? Two beautiful children.