EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Gia Gordon Social Service Specialist 3 Colfax

Mark Roper APS Supervisor Everett

Debra Arbuckle Social Service Specialist 3 and Self-Neglect Specialist Vancouver

GIA GORDONhas worked in the Whitman County, Colfax APS office since May 1, 2019. Whitman County consists of many small towns, each with their own financial institutions, nursing facilities, supported living homes, hospitals and police stations.

Gia immediately began forming relationships with community partners in her assigned area. She goes above and beyond to work with the professional community members. She’s even been asked to come work for a professional partner since they were very impressed with her knowledge and work ethic!

Gia remains dedicated to APS and her ability to build strong community relationships supports her ability to complete timely, thorough investigations. Well done, Gia! Thanks for all you do!

MARK ROPERworked in the APS Renton office from April 2018 -2019. After a short hiatus to Tennessee, he returned to APS as a supervisor in the Bellingham office. He now supervises a unit of investigators in Everett.

Mark retired from the army after many years of active duty where he served in a variety of different roles. He also has experience working for the US Forest Service, the Tennessee Department of Corrections, Family Services in Tennessee and Volunteers of America.

Mark is a team player who is extremely knowledgeable about protective services. We are glad Mark has found his home in Washington and continues to serve others in his role with APS. Thanks, Mark!

DEBRA ARBUCKLE was one of the first people to take on the selfneglect project. She has learned a lot throughout the process and has proven herself to be a great leader and resource for self-neglect specialists. She is always available to discuss potential protective services that may benefit alleged victims and is happy to share her knowledge about self-neglect with others.

Debra openly discusses the challenges and benefits of the self-neglect project and offers suggestions about areas of improvement.

Debra is a great team player and organizes a fun monthly Skype “potluck” to help build virtual community amongst the team. Debra is truly a great asset to the APS team!