Katie Taylor, Main Street’s Vice President – Marketing & Executive Projects, interviews Debra Peace, Main Street’s Office Manager. Prior to joining the organization, Debra has served nonprofits for over ten years in a variety of roles. Click here to learn more about Debra’s background.
How did you come across Main Street Launch?
I was looking for a job where I could work with an Oakland nonprofit. I saw the listing for Main Street Launch’s Office Manager and was asked to interview. The interview felt comfortable right away. The interview team asked me about my goals, and it seemed like the desire was to find a good match for both me and the organization. I felt like a priority, and it’s been great to work somewhere with so many opportunities for me to learn and grow.
In what ways do you think Main Street Launch brings value to our communities?
I’m from San Francisco’s Fillmore District, and I worked there for nine years. During that time I saw a lot of change and a lot of businesses start and close. Before I knew Main Street Launch I knew Main Street Launch clients in my neighborhood. Seeing new businesses start, create opportunities and jobs for others, and support the community is really impactful. It’s great to see the positive impact small businesses have made on that neighborhood over the years, and it’s amazing that Main Street Launch has been able to support that work.
What is your role at Main Street Launch?
I’m the Office Manager, so for many people I’m the first voice or face of Main Street Launch. I connect inquiring businesses with the right services and people on our team. I support the operations of the organization to make the experience of our work as smooth as possible. I do a little bit of everything at Main Street Launch!
What inspires you or motivates you about our work?
We help neighborhoods keep their culture and transform themselves. Small businesses old and new sustain communities and our services help them do that. To be able to support businesses that have faced challenges but keep on going is inspiring to me.
What do you enjoy about working on our team?
I love the people I work with. Our team is really diverse, not just in their backgrounds but in how they contribute to the organization. Everyone’s workstyles and personalities add something to help make us great. Every organization should have that.
Anything else you’d like folks to know?
I’m excited to see where Main Street Launch goes in the future. We’re growing every week, and it’s an exciting time to be part of this thriving organization.
