Staff Spotlight: Yanira Chavez

Aubry Vonck • Dec 14, 2020

Every other month, we invite you to learn more about our talented and caring staff. This month, meet Accounting Specialist, Houston native, experienced cruiser, and craft expert Yanira Chavez.

Q: How many years have you worked with the Coalition? 

I have been with the Coalition for two years now (this time). The first time I was with the Coalition was in 2017 as a temp for about three months from June-August. My assignment ended shortly after Hurricane Harvey hit Houston. 


Q: Where are you from originally? 

I was born and raised in Houston.


Q: What do you love most about Houston?

What I love most about Houston is that it is a vibrant place because of the different cultures - Houston is very diverse. I love how if you drive 45 minutes south you are at the beach, but if you drive 45 minutes north it is very country-like. There are so many events, restaurants, and places to enjoy here in Houston. Not to mention, we have THREE skylines!

Q: Can you tell me a little about your role at the Coalition and what it entails?

My title is “Accounting Specialist” which entails a mix of Accounts Receivable (AR), Accounts Payable (AP), and Payroll. I am currently working on Special Projects that will help our paperless system become more seamless. I also have been training our new employees in the Accounting department with AP and AR. Since we have grown significantly, we now have more than doubled our Accounting Team.


Q: What made you want to work in the area of homelessness?

As a child I used to wonder why people experienced homelessness. I did not understand how it happened or why. As an adult I became more educated about homelessness and the causes, which made me want to do something to help. If what I did today helped a person in need, then I know today was a good day.


Q: What are some projects/a project you are working on right now?

I am currently working on Special Projects that are helping our Accounting Department go completely paperless. This does not sound like a big job, but believe me when I say, it is! Since the pandemic, I had to find a way that we could all work safely. I came in the office and found ways to get everyone in Accounting what they needed without anyone else having to come in so that we could all continue to work without missing a beat while staying safe at the same time. Even though we did have plans to go paperless later in the year, it happened sooner than we had planned.


Q: What is the most inspiring part of your job?

The most inspiring part about my job is that my job does not only help support my family, but it also helps others in need. It is a huge passion of mine to help others, so the fact that I am working not only for myself and my family, but for others that are in need is a great joy.


Q: If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?

My superpower would definitely be lightning speed! I could accomplish so much more in a day because 24 hours just isn’t enough!


Q: Do you have any hobbies outside of work?

My hobby outside of work is all crafts! I can make anything from paper flowers to huge balloon arches and lots of other fun things. I design shoes, t-shirts, and anything else that can hold some paint and glitter! My favorite thing is making party treats like candy kabobs, cotton candy, and lots of other yummy and fun stuff!


Q: How has COVID impacted your life outside of work?

COVID has given me more love and gratefulness for my loved ones, as I see so many people sadly lose theirs. COVID has taught me that time is precious and every day I should do my best to make it count.  


Q: What song best describes your life?

“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten. It reminds me of how much I have overcome in my life and how far I have come as a person.


Q: What makes you proud?

I am very proud to say that my hard work and accomplishments have paid off and have given me a way to provide a happy home for my family.


Q: Tell us one fun fact about yourself!

I love cruising! If I could retire and spend the rest of my days on a cruise ship, I could say I had the best life ever!

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