Synergy Spotlight: Melissa Reyes-Maisonet, Deputy Director of Rental Assistance
Melissa Reyes-Maisonet is a thoughtful and accomplished professional with a diverse background. From her early days working at a music store in Puerto Rico to her current role as Deputy Director of Rental Assistance at RCAP Solutions, Melissa has demonstrated a strong work ethic and a passion for helping others.
Melissa holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the American University of Manati in Puerto Rico and is now pursuing a Human Services Degree at Quinsigamond Community College. This dedication to learning and self-improvement is a testament to Melissa’s drive and desire to make a positive impact in her field.
Melissa’s professional journey has been marked by a range of experiences, from working at the aforementioned music store, a call center, and even a small restaurant (which she owned and managed for 3 years). However, it was her role at RCAP Solutions that truly ignited her passion for the human services field. Melissa was originally hired by RCAP Solutions in 2018 as a Triage Associate. Under the guidance of her mentor, Sally Nieves, Melissa received a promotion almost every year since then, and now serves as the Deputy Director of Rental Assistance – where she helps oversee the administration of the organization’s housing voucher programs.
“I never knew how much I enjoyed working in the human services field until I started working here at RCAP Solutions,” said Melissa. “I had and have the best mentor – Sally Nieves – who guided me and shared her knowledge and love for the field.”
“Her excellence in work shines like a beacon, uplifting and inspiring all those around her,” stated Sally Nieves, Director of Rental Assistance. “Melissa embodies positivity and dedication in everything she does.”
Melissa finds immense joy in assisting her team and passing on her knowledge to help them advance within the organization, just as she did. Her focus is on nurturing her staff’s development and ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.
While Melissa faces the ongoing challenge of maintaining adequate staffing levels, she remains determined to provide the best possible service to participants and applicants. Her resilience and problem-solving skills allow her to navigate these obstacles effectively.
Susie Rich, fellow Deputy Director of Rental Assistance, proclaimed “There is a quote by the late Kobe Bryant that says: ‘The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.’ Melissa Reyes-Maisonet does just that. She inspires and encourages those placed in her path and around her to bring out the best by taking risks and celebrating the rewards. It is a pleasure to work with her and witness her compassion towards clients, property managers, owners, and staff and know that her focus is always on the positive aspects of life.”
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Melissa is a well-rounded individual with diverse interests and hobbies. She enjoys spending time with her family, including her daughters and grandbaby. Melissa also has an unwavering commitment to empowering and supporting youth. She firmly believes that every young person deserves to feel loved and empowered, and she strives to be a positive role model and mentor in her community.
Melissa’s contributions were echoed by Josh Bedarian, Chief Housing & Compliance Officer, who said, “Melissa Reyes-Maisonet epitomizes what it means to be an employee of RCAP Solutions. Melissa started her tenure with the organization at the front desk, assisting clients, learning program administration, and developing an understanding of how RCAP Solutions operates as an organization. Since then, Melissa has worked her way up to the position of Deputy Director of Rental Assistance and oversees a multitude of different functions in one of our most dynamic business units. Melissa is truly committed to the mission, vision, and values of RCAP Solutions and that reflects not only in her work for our participants, but in her commitment to her family, her community, and her peers. Melissa is an integral part of the RCAP Solutions team and has been one of the leaders of our growth in the last five years.”
Fun Facts About Melissa:
- Hometown: Worcester, Massachusetts
- Favorite Book: Paula by Isabel Allende
- Favorite Movie: Beauty and the Beast directed by Gary Trousdale & Kirk Wise
- Favorite Sports Team: Boston Red Sox
- Favorite Musician: Ricky Martin
- Place She’d Like to Travel to: Spain