For Joseph Sanchez, a developmental court forensic specialist with 海角社区鈥檚 Special Populations Network (SPN), service has always been at the heart of his work.
While still employed by the Department of Corrections (DOC) as a probation officer, Joseph began working part-time as a site technician at 海角社区鈥檚 Cabot Heights, a 24/7 residential facility for teenage boys in foster care. 鈥淲e monitored the kids, prepared meals, took them to activities and appointments,鈥 he said. 鈥淚t was more than just my part-time job; it was something I enjoyed doing.鈥
After retiring from the DOC, that passion for helping young people led him naturally into his next full-time role at 海角社区. Today, Joseph serves as a developmental forensic court specialist, helping ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism receive fair treatment and understanding within the court process. His team evaluates, supports and trains clients to help them navigate the legal system.
鈥淥ne of the biggest challenges is when we find adults who鈥檝e had these disabilities since childhood but were never identified,鈥 Joseph explained. 鈥淏eing able to help them get on the right path and finally receive the support they need is very satisfying.鈥
Melissa Caraway, SPN operations director, said, 鈥淛oseph treats everyone with respect, whether they are coworkers or clients. He鈥檚 dependable, respected by the judges and attorneys he works with, and he represents 海角社区鈥檚 values in everything he does.鈥
Over the years, Joseph has found fulfillment not only in the outcomes of his work but also in how it鈥檚 changed his outlook on life. 鈥淚n this role, you really learn compassion. You learn to understand people and meet them where they are.鈥
When asked what advice he鈥檇 give someone new to the department, Joseph didn鈥檛 hesitate. 鈥淐herish the opportunity,鈥 he said. 鈥淏e open-minded, respect the people you work with, and understand that our clients are truly special. If you lead with empathy and patience, you鈥檒l succeed.鈥
Now several years into his role, Joseph describes this as more than a job; it鈥檚 a calling. 鈥淭his is technically my second career,鈥 he reflected, 鈥渂ut I love what I do. My goal is to continue to serve our population with understanding and respect and to provide quality service that reflects the values of 海角社区.鈥
To work with compassionate team members like Joseph, visit our Careers site.