Meredith Hale

I joined CareLink’s development department after spending nearly five years in the for-profit sector as a PR specialist. Since joining CareLink in 2018, I have worked alongside many wonderful colleagues and community members to raise awareness about Central Arkansas’s Area Agency on Aging and the life-altering, and at times life-saving, services we provide our aging community and their families. I am a Meals on Wheels volunteer, I oversee all marketing and fundraising efforts, and I speak at local outreach events.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

Best advice I ever received

Not everything that happens is personal. Sometimes people say no or get upset, but it isn't because of you, it's because of them. Use it to grow and become stronger.

How I knew this was my passion

As a journalist (I've had a few bylines), I love the opportunity to tell a story and make the mundane parts of life unforgettable. Most importantly, I love telling stories that change minds. My career and CareLink give me that.

Biggest challenges in my career

I have faced many challenges that are largely in part to being a young professional. They've been great character builders and learning opportunities for me as an individual, professional and leader.

My first job and what it taught me

A summer job working for my aunt's embroidery company in North Carolina when I was 14. It taught me the importance of attention to detail and taking your time. No matter how good you are, mistakes can and will happen.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

CareLink! We connect older people and their families with the resources to meet the opportunities and challenges of aging. One of eight in Arkansas, we strive to give older people the confidence to live independently and safely in their homes.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

Hands down, the people we serve. Everything we do at CareLink is for them and about them.

Best career moment so far

Learning how to stand up for myself and my colleagues and when to walk away from a toxic environment.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

Talking it out. And Andy's Frozen Custard (see question about favorite meal in town).

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

It's not just writing a Facebook post and asking people for money. It's building relationships and sharing stories about the people who need me and you and us. It's about advocating for those who are unheard.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Take a step back and phone a friend. I process best by thinking out loud and getting in-the-moment feedback from people I respect.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

Best advice I ever received

How I knew this was my passion

Biggest challenges in my career

My first job and what it taught me

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

Best career moment so far

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Hot Springs

I can't start my day until

My toddler yells at me to hold him

Hobbies

Family walks

Binge watch

“Brooklyn Nine-Nine”

Last good read

“The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig

Favorite meal in town

Andy's Frozen Custard

Best recent local discovery

Baja Grill in The Heights

Latest splurge

Probably something for my son

Most-used app

Messages

Dream vacation

Tour Italy/Germany

SPONSORS