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This month's Staff Spotlight is our new Programming Coordinator, Caroline Finke!

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In April Caroline started with Mission 34. We look forward to what her incredible skillset she will bring to the team. Caroline has been a friend of M34 since the beginning. Read on for more scoop!

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Q: What first brought you to Mission 34?

A:  I've known about Mission 34 since its inception, and have followed along with their efforts over the years. My friendship with our fearless leader, Heather Bonner, ended up being the link that got me more directly involved with Mission 34, and I'm so thankful it did!

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Q: What made you decide to join the Mission 34 team?

A: My primary motivation in joining the Mission 34 team was the passion I've acquired for mental health advocacy through my own struggles with anxiety and depression. I've been on the receiving end of such incredible support throughout my mental health journey, and to get to play a role in offering support to others who may be struggling was a no-brainer.

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Q: What excites you most about your role?

A: I am most excited about getting to work directly with student leaders in our college chapters. I've already been so impressed by the students I've spoken with and their passion for our mission. I want to hear about the good and the bad and offer a helping hand to them whenever I can.

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Q: What do you hope people learn through Mission 34?

A: I hope people learn that mental health is a nuanced issue that no one should ever feel shame for struggling with. I also hope that Mission 34 helps people learn how much power there is in being a supportive presence in the lives of others, and how to accept support in return.

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‍Q: What’s been the most rewarding part of working with Mission 34 so far?

A: So far, the most rewarding part of working with Mission 34 has been the smiles. I see so much care and sincerity in the faces of those I've gotten to interact with thanks to Mission 34, and it makes me incredibly optimistic for the efficacy of the work that we're doing.

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Q: How has being part of Mission 34 impacted you personally?

A: Being a part of Mission 34 has brought a brand new flavor of gratitude into my life, as I am genuinely passionate about the work I get to do every day. It's such a privilege to work in a role that allows me to translate my own experiences with mental health challenges into positive support for others.

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Q: What would you say to someone thinking about joining the Mission 34 team(or getting more involved)?

A: Don't hesitate! Mission 34 has fostered an incredible community of people who are fervent advocates for reducing stigma and maintaining conversations about mental health. I am so grateful to be a part of this team, and I believe anyone who is at all interested in our mission would be as well.

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Fun Facts!

Hometown?

Charlotte!

Family Life?

I am the second oldest of five children. Before covid we were living in five different states, so I'm so happy to be back home and living closer to some of them again.

Favorite Charlotte Restaurant?

Roosters or Limani

Favorite Sport?

To play - volleyball

To watch - hockey

Favorite Cuisine?

Mexican