Pouring ‘Hart’ and Soul into Her Work: 5 Questions with Tamara Hart, Executive Assistant

1. Why do you have a passion for this work?

When I was young, my mom would drive my siblings and me to Faribault (Minnesota) to visit her cousin who lived in an institution. We would take Pauly to the park for a picnic lunch. Pauly did not speak and struggled to walk, but she was always happy to leave the institution. Her smile said it all. It was so hard when we dropped her off and had to say goodbye. Pauly would act up when we dropped her off and start throwing things and screaming. Unfortunately, the workers would grab her arm and lock her in a room. That made me mad. I vowed that I would always advocate for people with disabilities or for kids in school who were bullied. 

So, when I began working for Dungarvin, I was excited to find a compassionate staff and owners who respected individuals with disabilities. Dungarvin makes a difference in the lives of the people that we support. They hire a capable staff who truly want the best for the persons served. It is wonderful to see people with disabilities make choices, be involved in the community, hold jobs, and enjoy life!

2. What is your most treasured possession?

My family, friends and pets.

3. What would you most like to see happen in your state to better serve people with disabilities?

ADA compliance, like wheelchair accessibility, is important in restaurants, hotels, apartment buildings, shopping centers, and stores. It can be difficult to take a loved one shopping or go to a restaurant when there is no room for their walker or wheelchair. This can make them feel uncomfortable — and unwelcome. We need to change that so people with disabilities do not feel like they are a burden to society, but rather valued for who they are and what they offer. 

4. Who are your heroes in life and why?

One of my heroes in life is my mom. She is the most loving person in the world. She would give up everything to make her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren happy. My mom taught me to be patient, kind, and to love people all of the time. 

5. What do you most value about the Dungarvin team with whom you work?

Where do I start? I work with some of the nicest people who I have ever met. They are kind, gentle, passionate, positive, accepting, funny, helpful, artistic, unique, quirky, and smart. Our team works together to ensure we get the support needed to do great work. Now, that is true teamwork!