February 10, 2021

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board's Employee Spotlight highlights members of our dedicated team. Meet Jacqueline Payne. Jackie is a CAST Team Member (Administrative Assistant III/Business Specialist) at the Gartlan Center. She has been with the CSB for 20 years, but has an incredible 40 years total with Fairfax County.

What was your first job?
I worked with the Fairfax County CETA Summer Work Program under Mr. Earl Pulley. I worked in the basement of the Massey Building in archives/records. At that time, everything was on microfilm.

How did you get your job at the CSB?
I took a lateral transfer from Fairfax Circuit Court, as I have always loved working in a public service capacity.

How does your team collaborate or work with other CSB teams?
As the CAST Team, we assist with most functions of all CSB teams. We are the first to represent the CSB as people come in the door. We are also we are also the first to sometimes hear the client’s story and offer reassurance to get them on their way to a healthier lifestyle. We help with connecting the people we serve to other services in the community. We stay connected with the teams and the people we work with throughout the entry and discharge process, answering questions on services as well as county and CSB processes, policies and procedures.

What is the toughest challenge you have faced at work?
“This is why they are here.” – I have this quote on my desk so that on those tough days I can look at it and it helps me to understand the individual’s frustrations or demeanor. Then I can take a different approach with the person I may be working with. Working with a diverse community and being able to assist them with getting the services they need while respecting their human rights and knowing that they may sometimes not realize that they truly do need our services can sometimes be challenging.

What is your superpower?
Proofreading. Years ago, I took a proofreading class with the county and it has stayed with me over the years. I am always proofing as I read anything. What’s funny is I just recently noticed that in our Credible EHR program, when we are doing registrations it actually says ‘registraion’.

What is your secret talent your co-workers do not know about?
I recently started crocheting. My grandmother taught me as a child, and as I am building to retirement I have picked it up and just completed my first hat and scarf.

What are you currently reading?
“Yellow Crocus” by Laila Ibrahim, a story that traces the journey of very different women as each searches for freedom and dignity.

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do?
I would clear all my debts, take care of my family, invest and donate to help the homeless and human services organizations.

If you could eat one meal a day the rest of your life what would it be?
Italian – it’s hearty, filling, usually has vegetables and a protein. And even better, there is always some left over.

Thanks for all you do, Jackie!