Safiyah began working at the Decatur Family YCMA in 1999 and has worn many hats throughout her tenure. Since 2021, she has been running the Outreach Program, which provides food and clothes to unhoused individuals and families temporarily residing at three extended-stay hotels in the vicinity.
When Safiyah arrives at one of the hotels, residents stream out from their rooms and offer to help set up the tables in the parking lot. The reunion is warm and joyous as if meeting up with dear friends. Safiyah remembers everyone by name and takes the time to check in with each individual. The connections Safiyah has forged with the residents in the motels are heartfelt. She tells me that she knows what it feels like to be homeless and to struggle.
Music is another passion of Safiyah’s. She has been a long-time member of Conundrums, an all-women’s drumming group that specializes in West African rhythms. “We laugh, pray, cry, and drum together. We’ve traveled around the country performing. I have a bond with them that's hard to explain. We're just like sisters.” Safiyah is one of those rare individuals who emanates love and joy despite the many hardships she has endured, including a diagnosis of cancer in 2019. She lives life in the moment and commits herself fully, whether interacting with another individual at work, serving those in need, performing with her drumming sisters, or spending time with her family.
When asked where she finds her strength and deep sense of joy, Safiyah replies, “It comes from life. Life is a sprint, not a marathon. I'm trying to get as much out of it as possible, and that starts with finding my joy. If I find my joy, I can spread joy.”
How does it feel to be 72?
Why did you retire or why are you still working?
Why did you retire?
Why are you still working?
I work because it brings me a lot of joy. It keeps me productive, keeps me connected, and gives me a sense of purpose. I love coming through that door at the Y every day and seeing people I've seen over the last 25 years that I now consider friends. I've been to their homes. I've been to life and death events, and I've been to parties with them. They’re a huge part of my life.
That's why I work every day. I’m 76 and I don't plan on retiring. I want to stay productive. If I stay connected to a community, my memory will stay connected, and I'll physically stay connected. So, I will continue to work until I can’t work, because I enjoy what I do so much. That's the best way I can live a full life.
What do you look forward to?
What is your biggest concern?
Life expectancy 2023
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