Program Assistant, Northwest Alabama Mental Health Center

Many proclaim the wisdom of pursuing a career aligned with one's passions. For Rebecca Hunt, program assistant at Northwest Alabama Mental Health Center's Windows Without Walls Day Habilitation Program, this sentiment takes on a delightful twist: she gets paid to engage in activities she loves, such as shopping, watching the latest movies, and dining out.

"Where else can you get paid to hang out with your friends?" Rebecca says with a laugh.

Northwest Alabama Mental Health Center (NWAMHC) is a non-profit organization that exists to provide a variety of services to those who have been diagnosed with mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities, or substance use disorders. Employees like Rebecca help teach these individuals necessary life skills, like cooking, taking care of themselves, and avoiding dangerous situations.

"My actual job is to inspire and lead these individuals into becoming the versions of themselves that they want to be," Rebecca says. "We sit down with them, map out their goals, and we make plans on how to get there. We have been able to help clients do all sorts of things, from learning how to prepare a meal to proving one individual was legally competent enough to get married."

But in the spirit of loving to hang out with her friends, Rebecca's favorite part of the job is taking clients out on the town for new experiences. "We've taken our groups everywhere, from Noccalula Falls to wrestling matches and monster truck rallies," she says. "It's always a blast!"

Based at NWAMHC's Jasper location, Rebecca and her coworkers work with approximately 40 clients weekly. Rebecca describes her clients as "truly amazing individuals" who feel like family, emphasizing the personal connection forged through her work.

Rebecca has been with Northwest since 2009 but has worked with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 2004. The University of Alabama graduate initially planned to pursue a career as a dietitian, but says God had other plans for her.

"I soon realized that wasn't what I was meant to do," Rebecca explains. "The Lord led me to this line of work instead, and I have been nothing but blessed ever since."

Despite its rewards, the job comes with challenges. Rebecca acknowledges these challenges but stresses that the most demanding days often yield the most rewarding outcomes. "Sometimes things can be difficult, but I really miss it every time I have taken time away. At the end of the day, our job is done if we have made someone happy."

Looking ahead, Rebecca envisions a continued dedication to her current career unless another divine calling directs her elsewhere. "I'm here because of God," she says. "Without Him, I wouldn't be anywhere. I see Him and His love daily in our clients." 78