Faces of FCSS Myrna
Myrna Sopal,
Family Support Worker,
Raymond FCSS
How have your life experiences helped in your role
I have had the opportunity to spend most of my life around young children, families, and people of various ages including babysitting as a teenager, retail and hospitality positions, high school work experience in a Kindergarten classroom, Early Childhood Education Program in College, working in a daycare, being a stay-at-home Mom, volunteering in my children’s school, facilitating and working in Family Literacy Programs, volunteering with my church, and being an EA in a Pre-Kindergarten classroom. I have found where my passion is and what I enjoy doing with my life. I have had lots of experiences in a variety of settings that helps me share my knowledge with those around me. I have learned how to interact with people of all ages and help them feel seen and heard, especially when they are new or experiencing challenges.
Why did you get involved in FCSS
I first came to FCSS as a parent with my children for an evening program where we made playdough. Being new to the community, I wanted to find a place where my children and I could belong. As my role with FCSS has evolved over the years, I have always held a passion for the excitement of families interacting together, children learning new skills and the exploring that happens along with that and helping parents with the challenges that they face in their parenting role. I love my community and want to make it a better place for everyone.
What have you learned in your role with FCSS
Parenting is hard, even if you have been through it a few times. Each child is different, reacts to situations differently, and challenges us in different ways. Each child needs to feel loved and supported through the relationships that they develop and have the skills to bounce back from the ones that aren’t. It is our job as parents and educators to help give them the tools and supports that they need to become resilient, capable, emotionally secure, and mentally healthy people when they grow up. I love that my role helps to build those skills in children and adults. FCSS gives me the tools and trainings that I need to fulfil this role.
Faces of FCSS
If you want to be featured, or have someone you think should be featured, as a Face of FCSS, contact: communications@fcssaa.org
FCSSAA
The Family and Community Support Services Association of Alberta (FCSSAA) was founded in 1981, as a member-driven organization dedicated to bringing Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) programs from across the province together. We provide the platform for our member programs to connect and collaborate, so they can maximize resources and speak with an informed, credible, unified voice to all stakeholders.
