Influential Woman · Higher Education NonProfit
Kassandra Paquette
East Bay Community Action Program, East Bay Community Action Program,
RI
Her Story
About Kassandra
I've been working in the nonprofit sector since graduating with my undergrad in 2021, dedicating the past 4 years to supporting families and students in need. At East Bay Community Action Program in the East Bay of Rhode Island, I focus primarily on the East Providence section, going into the community to assist families with any needs they may have. I create and facilitate programs and education workshops, communicating with families and helping them navigate their needs. A significant part of my work involves supporting first-generation, low-income college students, ensuring they have the tools and resources to be the first in their family to graduate college. I help them overcome financial hardships by connecting them to scholarship money for tuition, and provide assistance with basic needs like groceries and gas. I serve as their mentor and coach, providing referrals and resources for everything from basic needs to mental health counseling. I really believe in everything that East Bay Community Action Program stands for, including the food pantry they support and the career closet that provides proper attire for job interviews and work apparel for people who can't afford it. The organization supports individuals with getting health insurance, mental health services, and access to primary care, which is a big challenge right now in Rhode Island. Getting access to healthcare for all is very important to me.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kassandra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think more in the family way - I kind of wanted to help others in my family, and that kind of put me in perspective that I really need to be more driven and more independent, and then work really hard. That made me want to pursue my education, getting my master's, working a couple jobs, doing things like that, so I could really support my family and my friends when they need the extra support. Being raised the way I was raised really shaped me - if you want something, you need to work for it. I didn't have that luxury where my family could provide for me, so I was like, I will work hard so I can provide for others. Even in high school, I was working at a grocery store, and all my friends would want to hang out, but I was like, no, I gotta work till late at the grocery store to make my money.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be scared, take charge, and speak up. Do what you believe is right for yourself and right for others. I'm always big for women empowerment. Even though the men could be viewed as in charge, don't let that discourage you. Take charge. I'm very much an independent woman, I don't really rely on others to support me. So take charge, be a boss. That's what I feel like I have to say to women who are looking to get their foot in the door - be empowering.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Primary care is a big challenge right now in Rhode Island. Getting access to healthcare for all is very important. We support individuals with getting health insurance and mental health services, because access to healthcare is such a significant issue.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I really am supporting others within my free time, either in a professional way or a personal way with family and friends. I really am going out and really caring for others. I believe in women empowerment and being independent. I don't really rely on others to support me - I work hard so I can provide for others. I believe in doing what is right for yourself and right for others.
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