13 Reasons Camden is One of the Best Workplaces for Women: Ena Duarte Edition

​​Camden was named #13 on Fortune’s 100 Best Workplaces for Women, in continuation with our Simply Camden Blog series highlighting 13 unique Camden women, our feature this week is double the fun! In honor of celebrating Ena being one of the unique women who make up Camden’s diverse work force, we also recognize her hard work and dedication for Camden’s Maintenance Appreciation Week! 

 

 

 "I love working for Camden because they make you feel like you’re a part of a family"

I started working at Camden on July 18, 2008. Starting with Camden was very exciting and I've discovered many experiences that have taught me how to be a great worker since working here. As one of the only woman maintenance staff members at Camden, I have always felt the need to push myself to work as hard as I can each and every day! This came almost instinctively since I love my job, the people, and residents that I work with on a daily basis. I learned how to be social with other people, especially the residents and by doing so it has expanded my English vocabulary.

I remember the first time I volunteered for Camden Cares, and remember thinking to myself “Wow, I can’t believe my company does all this” Since my start with Camden, I have volunteered to paint homes for veterans, packing meals at the Capitol Center Food Bank, and my favorite; the Honor Flight service at the National Mall. Working for a company that allows our team to serve in these ways has brought me great pride.

One of my most memorable moments as a Camden employee so far was winning the ACE Award. This is a peer nominated recognition award and although I was nominated for three years, I never once thought I would win. When they announced the winner and I realized they called my name, I was in shock. I never once thought I would have won! That moment marked my life. I love working for Camden because they make you feel like you’re a part of a family. Camden is always there to support me when I need it and I love the opportunities provided to me to grow and learn. I continue to develop myself through the various courses that are offered through Camden University and take any opportunity available to learn from my peers at work. 

 

 

 “I enjoy taking care of Camden’s property like it is my own”

My motivation for coming to work every day is my family, especially my two beautiful daughters who are my motivation to work hard. They’re what make me stronger each and every day. I am also motivated to keep Camden’s name on a high pedestal and take pride in my work. I take care of Camden’s property like it is my own and enjoy helping the residents wherever possible because I enjoy interacting with them and making them happy.

There was a former senior resident that I would always speak with in the hallways anytime I would see her. When walking became difficult for her, I would help carry her groceries to her apartment. She eventually moved on to an assisted living facility and when she passed, the family made the effort to inform me. The fact that they went out of their way to let me know what happened to this dear resident made me feel special and is something I always carry with me. I love and care for each of our residents like they are family and this is what ultimately makes my job fulfilling.

 

 Succeeding in my field!

I found it a little challenging working with men in the beginning but have learned so much from them in my journey.  I am proud of being able to do a job typically done by men and being able to accomplish what they thought I couldn’t was one of my ultimate motivators. By learning from them and being able to complete the same tasks, I was able to even the playing field.  What I didn’t know, my male coworkers taught me and we have found a mutual respect for one another. In these 8 years, I’ve never felt less than because I learn from them just as sometimes I teach them, and ultimately that's what it's all about.