Congratulations, Paula!

It is with very mixed emotions that we share news of Paula Tiffany’s retirement from Movin’ Out June 18, 2021. Paula joined Movin’ Out in 2001, making her our longest-serving team member by many years. She will be greatly missed! And of course we are delighted for her as she moves on to her next chapter. We talked with Paula about her 20 years with Movin’ Out.

Movin’ Out: How did you first come to join Movin’ Out? 

Paula: I had worked with families who had family members with disabilities for years before coming to Movin’ Out. I learned about a new agency that was helping people with disabilities purchase homes. It seemed like such an extraordinary thing, so I wanted to learn more about it. At that time, there were only a handful of home ownership clients. The organization was still developing its homebuyer education curriculum for people with disabilities, and working to secure additional funding for down payment assistance and repairs for safety and accessibility. The road was challenging and ever-changing. 

Movin’ Out: How would you describe your job in one sentence or phrase?

PT: I think it has been what everyone hopes their job to be: challenging and rewarding! 

Movin’ Out: What have you enjoyed or appreciated most about your time at Movin’ Out?

PT: I have met so many people who have worked so hard for the agency. I think back on all the contributions that so many people have given. My fellow housing counselors were some of the finest people I have ever met. They were tireless, creative people who truly fought for people to live in their communities. I am also profoundly moved by the personal alliances that people form in our community: the calls from a neighbor or church member who would like to help their friend with housing, and the contractors who go above and beyond what they were paid to do. I have been fortunate to see people taking care of other people.

Movin’ Out: Are there clients who stand out or who really touched you? 

PT: I think the things I have enjoyed the most are hearing about the children who are crossing the days off the calendar until they move into a home of their own. I have provided housing counseling to people who have worked for years on their credit and to save money for their own home. I have seen many women take control of their lives and leave abusive situations. I have always enjoyed seeing before and after pictures of our rehab program that consistently helps people remain in their homes.

Movin’ Out: If you could change anything about the way our society handles housing or home ownership for people with disabilities, what would it be? 

PT: It should be a right for people to have safe, decent, affordable housing. 

Movin’ Out: What words of wisdom would you share with us after 20 years with Movin’ Out?

PT: Keep a sense of humor!

Classic Paula! Congratulations on your retirement!