At the AIDS Foundation Chicago, we are thrilled to embark on an exciting journey of growth and empowerment as we welcome our new Vice President of Care, Freddie Shufford. With a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to health equity and the HIV community, Freddie brings with her a legacy of transformative care from her previous role as the Director of Social Services at the renowned Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center. At the CORE Center, Freddie served as Director of Social Services. In that role, Freddie led a team of AFC-funded case managers. She has deep and extensive knowledge of the HIV case management system.
In the spirit of getting to know Freddie a little better, we sat down with her for a brief Q&A session:
Q: How would you describe yourself?
A: I would describe myself as an easy going, approachable person. I am a life-long learner and appreciate listening and learning about others. I am a team player, collaborator and solution oriented.
Q: What drew you to this role and to AFC?
A: I have a long history working with the current and past AFC staff. My personal values align with those of the organization, and I believe this is an environment that can foster change and growth that expands across professionals, clients, community leaders, and all levels of government and the nonprofit sector.
Q: What does your role mean to you?
A: That I am in a position of responsibility to embody the values of the organization in all circles of influence. To be a voice for those that have been oppressed and have yet to be able to use their voice. Also, to be intentional about relationship development to have a greater impact on those I interact with.
Q: What ideas or projects are you excited about bringing to your role?
A: I am excited about the opportunity to work with some of the most dedicated and gifted individuals in the field. My hope and desire will be to look closely at our successes, challenges and opportunities and determine where we have room for growth and enhancement. I would like to reserve my first year to observe and explore to not make premature changes.
Q: What are you excited to learn about the AFC and the community it serves?
A: I am excited to continue to grow my knowledge from the community about how AFC can best serve its four priority populations (communities most impacted by HIV) through care/case management, among other areas of support.
Q: Finally, what is something that people may be surprised to learn about you?
A: That I have a couple of books in my head that need to be put on paper.
