Volunteer Spotlight
Jessica Galati
What is your connection to Family Services, Inc?
The organization that I work for, “Palmetto Youth Connections”, partners with Family Services to provide services throughout the community. I have also volunteered on several occasions with FSI.
How long have to you been volunteering with FSI?
I have partnered with and volunteering with FSI for three years now.
What do you do when you volunteer?
The main volunteer event that I do every year with FSI is Money Rocks, which is my favorite! It is a great way to educate the youth in our community about money and being financially stable and responsible. I have also volunteered with FSI during the Trident United Way, Day of Caring this past year, helping to revamp a children’s library.
What is your favorite part of volunteering?
My favorite part of volunteering is that I am able to give back to my community and help reach out to people on so many different levels. It is extremely rewarding.
Something unique/specific about yourself?
Something unique or specific about me is that I served 10 years in the United States Navy as a military police officer. I am very short and petite and when I tell people that, they find it very hard to believe, but it is true. I proudly served my country and loved every minute of it.
Staff Spotlight
Iris Albright
Official title?
Director of the Conservator Program
Start date?
April 2001
Tell me something unique/specific about yourself.
I graduated from high school in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. My therapy is my horse, Lady. She is the keeper of all secrets.
What did you do before this and how did you find FSISC?
I was an Assistant VP with 1st Citizens Bank and NBSC for 23 years.
How would you describe your job at FSISC?
It all comes down to common sense. Treat people with respect the same way you would treat your own parents or grandparents. Our clients are no longer able to make proper financial decisions. This can be due to a physical disability or mental inability. They have become vulnerable to predators; unfortunately some of these predators are their own children. Many of our clients have been left to fend for themselves and end up living in deplorable conditions. Our role as the court appointed conservator is to secure all assets for our clients, budget their funds and forecast how long their funds will last. This can involve selling and buying real estate, cars and personal items. We will apply for all allowable public benefits and make arrangements for a pre-need burial service. There have been times when I have been the only person at their funeral. I have 5 counselors that work under my supervision.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Stopping the bad guys!
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