“I have gained additional confidence in myself and am able to lead even more effectively now. PULSE has provided the tools to magnify my voice.” -Doug Wampler
Doug Wampler comes to Pittsburgh by way of Fredrick, Maryland. Douglas received his degree in Urban Studies from the University of Pittsburgh. At Pitt, he assisted with research on affordable housing. Prior to joining PULSE, Douglas worked as a Communications Intern with the Oakland Planning and Development Corporation. Additionally, he was a Community Outreach Program Assistant with the Human Services Center Corporation. In his free time, Douglas enjoys traveling and backpacking. He is a part of the South Hilltop cohort, and is serving at Evolve Coaching.
Ryan Prescott: What has been the most valuable part of the PULSE experience so far?
Doug Wampler: Mentorships and networking opportunities within the direct practice field. I have also found living in the city of Pittsburgh a tremendous asset both personally and professionally as I have only lived in the Pittsburgh suburbs before.
Ryan: How has PULSE inspired you to live/think/act differently?
Doug: I have gained additional confidence in myself and am able to lead even more effectively now. PULSE has provided the tools to magnify my voice.
Ryan: Tell me something you are learning about yourself through PULSE.
Doug: I enjoy time by myself more than I previously thought. It is ok to relax by myself without being with others.
Ryan: What do you enjoy most about your nonprofit partnership?
Doug: I like the flexible schedule, direct practice experience, and that I get to help those that live with Autism find gainful employment and success. I also enjoy working in the heart of the South Side and trying the newest restaurants in the city.
Ryan: What have you enjoyed most about living in community?
Doug: Sharing a budget together is a bonding experience, and living together within the same means has created a close community.
Ryan: Describe a typical day at your nonprofit partnership.
Doug: I meet a client at their place of work, or lead a work-readiness group at CCAC, WHSS, or another venue. I then individually meet more clients throughout the day, do paperwork for OVR, and represent Evolve Coaching in the South Side community through tabling volunteer fairs or other events.
Ryan: What surprised you most about Pittsburgh?
Doug: I was really surprised by how small and close-knit the nonprofit community in Pittsburgh is. Everyone is separated by no more than two degrees.
Ryan: What is the most interesting/fun adventure you’ve had in Pittsburgh so far?
Doug: Bar hopping along the Southside on the first night of orientation with the North and South cohorts and trying to find Jarrett Crowell for over twenty minutes across multiple bars and streets. Also Jarrett breaking our basement door by night two of orientation.
Ryan: What’s your favorite “family meal” recipe for the house?
Doug: It’s a toss up between the southwest chili that Chelsea makes and the hot dogs that Ryan grills.
Ryan: What is the best part of the PULSE experience?
Doug: The access that PULSE provides, in terms of networks and resources, is second to none.
Story by PULSE Fellow Ryan Prescott.
Read more Fellow Stories about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.
Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: