Lauren is the Workforce Coordinator at Finger Lakes ReUse. She started this January.
What drew you to working at ReUse & How long have you been working at ReUse?
In 2019 while studying my bachelor’s, I was a SUNY Cortland Green Representative, and during our training CEO Diane Cohen came to speak about ReUse. I was immediately impressed and drawn to the company’s vision and values. Soon after, I spent the last few years as a dedicated shopper supporting ReUse. I recently relocated to the area from Breckenridge Colorado and was in search of a job, when I saw ReUse was hiring I knew it would be a great fit. I have been working here for about 2 months and I’m loving every minute of it.
What is your favorite part of working at ReUse?
The people! I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know everyone so far and am looking forward to continuing to build meaningful connections. I also love the changing pace of the work environment and how no two days are alike.
How have you grown to understand the impacts of our mission statement (enhancing community, economy, and environment through reuse) through your work?
When I first started working here, I was blown away by the amount of items that get donated and overall how much stuff really exists on our planet. Seeing firsthand what we’re doing to reduce the amount of waste in landfills and give items a second chance is really meaningful. It’s easy to become detached and not think about the impacts of stuff we buy and throw away, but working for ReUse has helped broaden my knowledge of everything we’re doing here together. I hope to continue to expand my awareness of the work we’re doing, and advance in the ways I can contribute to our mission, vision, and values.
What do you feel you bring to the ReUse team?
Compassion and kindness! The world can be a difficult place and we all face internal and external struggles. I try to brighten others’ days through random acts of kindness and offering compassion where I can. Sometimes a smile can go a long way!
Tell us a few fun facts about yourself?
I have a bachelor’s in Outdoor Recreation and love spending my free time doing leisure activities from skiing (aka shredding the gnar), rock climbing, and backcountry backpacking to paddling and sailing. This led me to get my WFR (Wilderness First Responder), which I’ve held for 4 years. You can also find me frolicking through the forest, foraging, identifying plants, and animals. When I’m not outdoors, I spend the rest of my free time painting, woodburning, and wire wrapping. I also have 2 adorable cats who travel with me and my partner and love to go on adventures too!