On the Job: Myra Hinkle, Metro Community Development

Myra Hinkle has found her passion for nonprofit work.

“While growing up, I didn’t know much about nonprofits,” says Hinkle, who graduated from Mott Middle College in 2012. “I looked up to people who were doing great things for the community and realized that working for a nonprofit was a viable career path.”

After the realization, Hinkle set sights on Metro Community Development, an organization in Flint that serves as a catalyst, committed to excellence through effective partnerships, advocacy, economic and community engagement and community development through the provision of financial products and development services to economically distressed populations, to promote stable vibrant communities.

“I felt proud when I was hired as an administrative assistant at Metro,” says Hinkle, who holds a bachelor’s degree in communication with a minor in media studies. “I love being able to help others with housing needs.”

What does a typical day look like for you?

Typically, I am met with all types of tasks such as coordinating community committee meetings and assisting with our housing program that helps homeless people find permanent and affordable housing.

How has your job changed with the shelter-in-place executive order?

There have been regulation changes. However, we are still able to follow up with clients and get the required documentation we need.

What have you learned from this experience?

I’ve learned that when it comes to assisting others you don’t need to physically be in an office setting. Working from home isn’t always as easy as it seems. But it has brought us together and helped us learn that we can still accomplish our tasks without being around each other.

How did the lessons learned in TeenQuest help you on the path to your current position?

Throughout TeenQuest, I learned how to carry myself in a professional manner and work with the business community.

What skills did you use when interviewing for your position?

Instilling confidence in myself and knowing how to walk into a professional setting, shake hands with someone and make eye contact.

What has TeenQuest meant to you?

It was a confidence booster. When I was younger, I had no idea I would have the confidence to work in the setting I do now.

What advice would you offer current TeenQuest students?

Take advantage of internships and community events that build your professional goals whenever you can.

What have you been most proud of since graduating TeenQuest?

Being able to see my professional resume expand and continue to give back to the community that raised me.

TeenQuest and Summer Youth Initiative are made possible through the generous support of the Charles StewartMott Foundation.