STAFF SPOTLIGHT: COLETTE MOBLEY

This isn’t just a regular building, because there are so many ways in which we give back, but people can’t see that from outside. So seeing people come in and realize that is amazing.

Colette Mobley has been a front desk receptionist at ICA GreenRise since 2017.

How did you find the ICA?
I had been here before for the play, “My Soul Cries Out”. I was invited by Kamela Bryant and Lesley Showers. That’s how I heard about ICA. Later, Lesley mentioned she had an opportunity available that i might be interested in, which is how I landed here. That was last September.

What is your role?
My official role is reception, which means my unofficial roles are security, counseling, mentoring, and motivational help. I give the clients who use our building encouragement and tips on places to stay or how to find jobs. When I started I knew a little that this wouldn’t be an ordinary receptionist job, but not like I know now. People recognize me on the street now, and it’s cool being so friendly with everybody. I’d say I have relationships with most of the people who pass through the building. I know their names, faces, and schedules. We have a rapport.

What is your favorite thing about the ICA?
Oh wow… I’d have to say it’s the view of everything that I have sitting at the front desk. This isn’t just a regular building, because there are so many ways in which we give back, but people can’t see that from outside. So seeing people come in and realize that is amazing. I volunteered for the Open House tour and saw so many people come in and ask questions about the building. I was honored to be able to talk about all the good things that happen here. Which is my other favorite part of working here: touching the lives of so many people. I’ve been homeless before, so I really relate to our clients, and do whatever I can to support them—cheering them on, giving away some of my furniture—it’s what we’re supposed to do. It bothers me when I can’t give, when I can’t help.
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​What is an interesting fact about you?
I have such a big heart! I’m always looking for ways to help people. If I could give one piece of advice, it would be: don’t be a taker; always look for opportunities to give back.