Meet Erin Long and Meghan Connolly! Erin is the Development Manager and Meghan is the External Relationship Coordinator for Communities in Schools of PA.
Communities In Schools of PA is an organization whose mission is to keep kids in school and succeed in life. CIS understands that there are many barriers preventing this—some are easy to spot, like academic problems or homelessness. Others are less obvious-bullying, untreated medical issues, or lack of school supplies or clothing. Communities In Schools addresses these barriers by collaborating with school districts and placing site coordinators in schools to assess students’ needs and provide resources tailored to each kid. Here in Lancaster, CIS partners with four schools in the School District of Lancaster. Site Coordinators and Community School Directors not only work with kids one on one, they also partner with local businesses, social service agencies, health-care providers, and numerous community volunteers to fully provide resources to our students in need.
Erin loves working with incredible site coordinators, student support specialists, community school directors, and state office staff who all are committed and passionate about the CIS mission. She also loves meeting the students and learning about their amazing perseverance, individuality, and stories of success. Erin is new to The Candy Factory, but already loves the collaborative atmosphere and the many opportunities available for personal and professional growth. “I also love the numerous seating and standing options in the common space. I’m not the type to stay seated all day so this is very appealing to me!” she says.
Meghan loves the people she works with as well. “Everyone is focused on the main goal, which is to help children succeed in school and in life. I have always enjoyed helping others and I think this organization allows me to do just that while also honing in on my communications and developmental skills,” she explains. When it comes to coworking, she loves the open atmosphere. “Seeing other people is an extra motivator for myself. The Candy Factory is just that and more!”
In their spare time, Erin loves running, urban gardening with her fiancé, food, discovering and trying new restaurant spots, and volunteering with Arch Street Center, The Common Wheel, and Leadership Lancaster. Meghan loves concerts and spending time with family and friends. She also loves being outdoors, and recently started a new Paleo diet, “so I’m always on the hunt for innovative and alternative forms of eating!” Meg says.
Say hello to Erin and Meg next time you see them!
