As Gail Reed gets closer and closer to her Dec. 2 retirement, her replacement, Kimberly Healey, is getting more and more acclimated.
Kimberly Healey, the former office assistant, took her position as supervisor of the Barry County Neighborhood Center on Nov. 7.
“I have been here since Sept. 5, 2019,” she said. “I have lived in Cassville for about two years, but I have lived in Barry County for my whole life.”
Healey said she is bringing companion and empathy with her into the role.
“I have been on both sides of the table,” she said. “I really just want to help people.”
Healey said she has learned a lot from Gail Reed over the years.
“I don’t even know where to start, because I have learned so much,” she said. “Probably the best thing she taught me is how to interact with people better.
“She has definitely given me the knowledge on how to do this job.”
Healey said one of the programs she most looks forward to is the REALL program.
“It is a simulation for high school children to show them how their choices and decisions affect their life and their future,” she said. “I think some of the most beneficial things we do are the energy assistance we offer, and the clothing closet.”
Healey said she also has some new programs she would like to bring into the community.
“There is this program in Dallas County called Phil the Peacock,” she said. “It helps to fill the local pantries we have. Businesses will choose a month to donate food to keep the small pantry cabinets around town stocked.”
There is one pantry cabinet at the SWMO Restore, and one outside the OACAC office.
“For a long time, I was a single mom with six kids,” Healey said. “I went to the OACAC for many years for help.
“We have people come in all the time that say, ‘I’ve never done this before, I am so embarrassed.’ I say to them, and to others who may feel embarrassed to ask for help — don’t you ever be embarrassed to reach out for a helping hand. That is what we are here for.”
Healey said she would like the community to know she is a mom of six, and loves to take care of people.
A public retirement party will be held for Reed on Dec. 2 from 2-4 p.m.
