Meet Tamara Schierkolk

Tamara is currently an employment consultant based out of our Northeast Minneapolis office and a Champion of the Month for December 2024.

Tamara came to Rise more than two years ago with an impressive list of experiences, including eight years as a personal care assistant for people with developmental disabilities, plus four years as an employment consultant in Arizona. Additionally, Tamara’s background includes writing, editing, grants, and a long history of volunteerism with many underserved communities, including people with disabilities.

When seeking to work in employment services again, Tamara knew of Rise as a respected organization. “I looked there first. Happily, I found Rise was hiring employment consultants!” Tamara shares. “I feel respected in my place here and trusted to do the work I love.” Tamara puts her expertise to use, using her writing strength to support people through resume and cover letter writing.

Tamara’s Impact

Tamara is known for going above and beyond to support people on their journey to a job. One example is that she introduced her team at Rise to a federal program supporting at-risk, hard-to-place job seekers looking to find and maintain employment.

One colleague describes Tamara as “highly dedicated to her work.” Another shares, “She is constantly advocating for the people she serves.” Tamara also makes it a priority to celebrate the people she serves. “I’m proud that one of my persons served won the Rise’ing Star Award in 2024. Another is pursuing his GED, and another earned a scholarship for Native American Peer Recovery Specialist training.”

Tamara Outside of Rise

In her spare time, Tamara enjoys being active in her church community, making time for weekly dates with her husband, thrifting, and shopping at rummage sales. “It brings me excitement to search for creative and inexpensive ways to dress and decorate my home,” she said.