10/24/2024
Meet our Team!
**Macy Martin**
Foster Grandparent Coordinator,
Portage & Stark Counties
Macy Martin joined Family & Community Services (FCS) in late June 2022 as the Foster Grandparent Coordinator. Her journey to FCS began during a college class where she had to apply for numerous jobs. After securing an interview, she was offered the position, marking the start of her first full-time professional role.
Macy's favorite aspect of working at FCS is the organization's commitment to helping people. She has always known she wanted to assist others and loves that FCS provides support at various stages of life through a wide range of programs. Macy is particularly passionate about the Foster Grandparent Program, which places volunteers in school settings to help students with their specific needs. She believes having a grandparent figure at school is invaluable and enjoys seeing the positive impact on the children.
One of Macy's biggest challenges is recruiting volunteers for the program. Despite her efforts, some people misunderstand the nature of the program, thinking it involves fostering children. Additionally, finding volunteers who meet the income guidelines can be difficult.
A memorable moment for Macy was when her volunteer, Clyde Adams, was recognized as a "Friend of Education" in the Ravenna School District at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. Macy attended the ceremony and was deeply moved by the standing ovation Clyde received. Witnessing Clyde, who is 95 years old and still serving, brought tears to many eyes and was a true celebration of dedication and service. Macy proudly shared the speech given by Clyde's teacher with her family, finding Clyde's commitment inspirational.
Macy is proud to have graduated from Kent State Stark University in May 2022 with a Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Studies, concentrating in Family Life Education.
On a personal note, Macy has three siblings—an older brother, a younger sister, and a younger brother. She has lived in the same town all her life and recently moved in with her boyfriend of nearly 7.5 years. She enjoys watching TV, reading, and spending time with her family and friends. Macy also shares her home with a cat, a dog, and her mother's 12 chickens, which have brought unexpected joy and laughter to their lives.
Her coworkers describe Macy as cute, fun to work with, energetic, creative, and always willing to help out. They praise her excellent energy, super caring and friendly nature, tireless dedication, and tremendous love and compassion for her volunteers. Macy's positive attitude and commitment to her role make her a valued member of the FCS team.
