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Winter
2006
Ann Orth
“It was an honor and privilege to work with a person of the caliber and quality of Mitch Wienick. His coaching and insight were remarkable. Mitch was instrumental in helping me understand more about my values, motivations, and unique situation, all of which were essential in guiding my job choice. I could not have done it without Mitch.”
-AO
January 2007
Ann had been a leader in biochemical scientific research with several high-profile corporations. Through her self-examination work with Mitch Wienick, she found her “niche” and turned her passion – her volunteer work – into a new career. Ann is now Director, Volunteer and Patron Services for Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK).
You found Kelleher in a bit of a different way. How did you happen to make this particular choice?
A top executive coach I knew recommended Kelleher and, specifically, Mitch. He came so highly recommended that I had to meet with him.
What were two or three of the most valuable elements of his coaching style?
Mitch offered a steady guiding hand. He was with me for all phases of exploration and decision-making. He met me where I was professionally and emotionally and kept me moving forward.
Tell me a little bit about the work that led to this courageous decision.
At first I volunteered at the soup kitchen at my church 10-15 hours a week over a couple of months and saw that it was very satisfying to me as it tapped into my desire to really give back and help the community in a direct and tangible way. From there, I contracted for a paid position at the same 10-15 hours/week. By paid, I mean minimally paid.
I set it up that way to give the director of the soup kitchen a view into the value of this role within their structure. Because I had the confidence of the director, he gave me more challenging work and a deeper look at what the organization was doing as a way of helping me see what contributions I could make. Formalizing my role made this sharing this information possible and gave me a window into non-profit management.
We all have “extra-curricular” parts of our lives, but they often do not cross into our work world. What motivated you to take on this volunteer project and what role did Kelleher play in helping you think through the transition?
As our church musician, I began to think about social impact and social service. They meant more to me than revenue and shareholder value which are the benchmarks of the corporate world.
My life’s driving force came down to social service. I was called to serve the poor. I would not have seen this if it were not for Mitch and his particular coaching style.
Can you be more specific?
Mitch is discerning and understanding. He has an attentive ear. To his credit, he drew out of me things I did not know were inside of me. It took several months for me to see it clearly. He was very caring. As a result, I trusted Mitch to help me see if I was heading down a wrong path and I knew he would tell me if I were.
Would you recommend Kelleher to others?
Without hesitation I would, and I already have.
How would you describe the environment at Kelleher?
I would use these words – welcoming; thorough; very professional; and they have everything you need to manage this process and have their clients come out better for it.
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