Amy Parker reflects on the importance of enjoying the current moment and helping others, as well as making time for family and for loved ones. Parker grew up in Fort Wayne and attended Bishop Lewis High School before moving to Portage.
“I didn’t exactly follow a traditional path after high school,” Parker said. “I received my cosmetology license and then I attended court reporting school, which I learned I couldn’t do, but at least I tried.”
Parker worked at the casinos off of Cline Avenue until the bridge was shut down. She was a part of the downsizing that followed in the aftermath, and so it was time for her to find another source of income.
“I wanted something different, something steady like a 9-5,” Parker said. “Working for Portage Economic Development Corporation was a natural fit.”
Parker currently works as the Business Development Coordinator at PEDC, helping to bring in new businesses to the city. She also focuses heavily on workforce development and creating new jobs to assist in the growth of Portage’s economy. Most important to Parker, though, is she’s helping both people and the City of Portage to have better lives through bringing in both new businesses and new sources of revenue.
“I’m a people person. I love helping people,” Parker said. “I want to help them succeed, and I want to help Portage succeed because I’m a part of this city. In Portage, you get to know your neighbors. You want to see them grow and succeed.”
Parker’s free time outside of work is taken up by her cross-stitching, needle-pointing, and her three lovely grandchildren.
“Life is so busy, but I like to spend as much time with my grandchildren as possible, to help shape and enjoy them,” Parker said. “It’s a second chance at slowing life down.”
Parker is working diligently to ensure that both her city and grandchildren have an excellent and bright future ahead of them.
To learn more about Portage Economic Development Corporation, visit their website http://portagein.org/