Sylvia McKinney

Years Worked with the County: 15 yrs

Briefly describe your job. What do you do?
I am just one of the main faces to welcome in those entering DSS front doors. My main duty is maintaining the lobby check-in for multiple programs that consist of (Family and Adult Medicaid, Food Assistance Program, Child Support, Work First Cash/Energy programs, Day Care, CPS/Foster Care, APS services.) I direct those entering the building where to go and allow access to the various parts of the agency if necessary. I assist in maintaining a secure safe workplace for all that enter or use the building. I must be up to date on all available programs and have a good understanding about those services to make appropriate referrals for services we provide or where it can be found in the community. I am also a point of contact for those that need translating in Spanish either in person and or by phone.  I answer incoming calls and must know how to direct those calls with specific questions to a specific worker. I assist with all programs by recording all the mail-in or drop-off recertification paperwork by timely keying -In Progress- status into State NCFAST System. I assist with updating state system with all needed and correct contact information such as change of addresses, reordering new EBT/ Medicaid Card for FNS/Medicaid clients that report lost or stolen. I handle workers’ outgoing mail that is sent down for clients to pick up from all the different programs. I assist workers working off site with making copies, mailing their correspondence.  I make sure that voter application forms are given to various depts for their use and I am the point person in charge of collecting ALL completed Voter forms at DSS to be sent to the State Board of Elections in a timely manner.

What is a typical workday like for you? 
Every day is an Adventure here at the agency. I see people with all kinds of issues and needs that may even require medical attention or on-site security. My job is to be situationally aware and be able to diffuse a potential situation by passing on needed information to my co- workers or our deputy.   Each day brings on new and unique challenges. By being aware of each program’s guidelines, I can anticipate what each day could look like. Also, by checking in the volume of FNS recerts every month. When school is ending and summer is beginning, I know Day care unit will have higher in person contact when childcare becomes a need, as well as the seasonal changes have impact on Energy assistance needs.

What is your favorite aspect of your job – what do you enjoy doing most?  
Meeting and greeting the people that reside in this beautiful county. I am excited that I can be a part of Making- Living- Better for those in my community.

What do you like best about working for Catawba County?
The Benefits! Great coworkers, health care and retirement savings and they email weekly other job opportunities. I may be interested in doing. NOT! I love my job. Also, Catawba County appreciates their employees with longevity pay and opportunities for growth with lunch and learn programs and health challenges! This place ROCKS!