Meet Daphné Moore | Congressional District Constituent Services Liaison

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daphné Moore and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daphné, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking

When considering risk, I contemplate the act of venturing beyond one’s comfort zone to pursue dreams or goals. Taking a risk can lead to either favorable or unfavorable outcomes, and by not taking a risk, one may forever wonder about missed opportunities. In my personal and professional life, risk has at times yielded positive results, while at other times, it did not unfold as expected. Nevertheless, each experience, whether positive or negative, has contributed to shaping my character, leadership, personal and professional life fueling my determination to pursue my aspirations.

One of the guiding principles I live by, imparted by a mentor, is to become comfortable with the uncomfortable. Without taking calculated risks, I may not have pursued my current career path or achieved the level of success I enjoy today. The perspective one holds when taking significant chances is crucial, as it influences how these risks are perceived.

Returning to school to obtain my GED was a significant risk for me, as it was accompanied by fear – fear of failure, fear of falling behind, and fear of an uncertain future. Success is never guaranteed, and only life and death are certain. However, this risk led a high school dropout to become an intern for a State House Representative, a Legislative Assistant for a State Senator, a Manager for the North Carolina Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, and now a Congressional District Constituent Services Liaison for the US House of Representatives. The sacrifices made along this journey varied in nature, some painful, some discouraging, and some immensely rewarding.

Ultimately, the extent to which one is willing to pursue their aspirations determines the value of these sacrifices.
In conclusion, risk is not merely about uncertainty, but about the potential consequences, both positive and negative, that arise from taking a chance on something important. It is a journey that demands resilience, determination, and a hunger to achieve one’s goals, regardless of the sacrifices involved.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My role as a Congressional District Services Liaison involves connecting the congressional office with the communities and constituents of congressional district 2. This includes developing strategies to engage and serve the public, coordinating responses to individual constituent concerns on the federal level, and collaborating closely with various units within the congressional office.

Additionally, the position requires creative and effective problem-solving related to a range of issues of interest and concern for constituents within the district. I also oversee constituent case work for various federal agencies such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Department of Veteran Affairs, Department of Defense (DoD), United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), among others. This multifaceted role demands proactive engagement with constituency groups and a dedication to ensuring effective and timely responses to individual constituent concerns and requests for assistance.

What distinguishes me is the ability to relate to constituents, irrespective of their background. My personal experiences have provided me with a profound understanding of the urgency in addressing needs. When constituents reach out feeling frustrated and exhausted after exhausting all avenues for a solution, I empathize with their frustration and approach the situation with compassion.

My commitment lies in advocating for constituents to ensure they receive the necessary support. If direct assistance is not feasible, I connect them with individuals or agencies that can provide further help. These crucial aspects are often overlooked in public service, where individuals may be overworked and facing their own challenges, leading to minimal effort. Drawing from life’s valuable lessons, I always make my focus on how I can make a difference for others.

My dedication to helping others has been deeply influenced by my father, an Air Force Vietnam Veteran.

Reflecting on this remarkable year, the multitude of achievements makes singling out one a challenging task. The sheer breadth of my accomplishments has surpassed even my own expectations, marking this period as one of unparalleled personal and professional growth. As I contemplate the future, I find myself eagerly anticipating the trajectory of my journey in the upcoming year and beyond. The prospect of the impact I can continue to make within the realm of Congressional District 2 adds an extra layer of excitement to this unfolding narrative.

Contemplating my professional odyssey, I credit my achievements to a blend of faith, prayer, and the steadfast support from my family, mentors, and friends. The relentless pursuit of self-improvement, coupled with resilience in the face of numerous setbacks, has been instrumental in propelling me to my current position.

The journey was far from smooth. At a pivotal juncture, I grappled with the value of returning to school, juxtaposed against peers who seemed to have already carved out their careers, built families, and established homes. This comparison became a crucible, prompting introspection into both my path and my faith. In prayer, I expressed gratitude for the opportunities—earning a GED, an Associate’s, and a Bachelor’s degree—yet pondered the elusive nature of career advancement.
Overcoming disappointment and discouragement became the focal point of my struggle. Rejections were a constant companion, but I viewed each job secured as a stepping stone, committing to give my best at every opportunity. This approach forged a reputation for me as a dedicated, reliable worker and a proficient executor of tasks.

In the midst of the waiting and discouragement, Mrs. Tonia Lewis, my supervisor at the Salvation Army Milton Road Boys and Girls Club, urged me to tap into my networks for potential job opportunities. Following her counsel, I reached out to a former classmate, leading to an introduction that ultimately secured me a position in the Offices of the Governor.
Assuming the role of Volunteerism Manager for Governor Roy Cooper’s Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, I rapidly ascended the ranks, collaborating with nonprofits statewide and spearheading impactful projects. As the year drew to a close, I found myself presented with an opportunity to interview for my current position as a Constituent Services Liaison in the Congressional District 2 office. This journey, though arduous, has molded me into a resilient and accomplished professional.

In my journey, I’ve gathered a wealth of lessons, but let me distill it down to five crucial insights that continue to shape my path:

1. **Express Gratitude Unconditionally:**
Regardless of the circumstances—whether the tide is favorable or challenging—always cultivate gratitude. This practice not only offers a profound perspective shift but also has the extraordinary power to unlock unforeseen opportunities.

2. **Elevate Every Role, Exceed Every Expectation:**
In any position, transcending the ordinary is key. Approaching tasks with a mindset that considers how they contribute to your overarching goals transforms routine into a strategic step forward. Going above and beyond isn’t just about the immediate task; it’s about recognizing that observers, often influential ones, are watching.

3. **Extend Kindness to Every Encounter:**

A lesson acquired through personal trials: kindness is a universal currency. Treating every individual with genuine kindness not only acknowledges the unseen struggles they may be facing but also has the potential to brighten someone’s day. Importantly, you never know which person you meet holds the key to your next opportunity.

4. **Embrace Authenticity Amid Societal Pressures:**

The concept of “be yourself” is often preached but not always practiced. Society’s expectations can impose warped perspectives on identity. Embracing your unique self, unabashedly, is a powerful act. Your individuality holds the potential to introduce new thoughts, discussions, and perspectives to spaces that may have been void of such richness. In every setting, be unapologetically you.

LT McCrimmon, Senior Director at APCO Worldwide, imparted a profound mantra to me: “My presence is not here to put you at ease.”

5. **Lift Others as You Climb:**
An unwavering belief in the principle of reaching back and pulling others forward has been a cornerstone of my journey. Mentors and supporters played a pivotal role in my trajectory, and I am committed to paying it forward. The philosophy of “each one teach one,” as aptly put by Denzel Washington, underscores the transformative impact we can have by aiding others in reaching their aspirations or connecting them with the right people to propel them forward. In conveying my message to the world, I emphasize not just my dedication to efficiently executing plans, but a commitment that transcends mere efficiency. My passion lies in advocating for those often sidelined or underrepresented, driven by personal experiences of being unheard and unseen.

I want the world to know that I have a genuine concern for people, particularly those marginalized, is deeply rooted. Having navigated a path of being overlooked, I recognize the significance of uplifting others. Echoing Fannie Lou Hamer’s sentiment that “People are sick and tired of being sick tired,” I stand as a steadfast advocate both within and beyond the walls of the congressional district office.

My approach is intricately woven with empathy; I believe in the power of simply listening without interjecting unsolicited advice or imposing my own narrative. As a hardworking, transparent, and determined individual, I pursue my objectives with unwavering vigor. My commitment extends to leaving a legacy that positively shapes the world, leaving it better for those who come after us.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and guidance I have received from numerous individuals throughout my journey. I hold immense appreciation for the invaluable contributions of my mentors, both past and present colleagues, friends, and the countless individuals I encounter daily, each of whom has left an indelible impact on my life. I am also profoundly thankful for the unwavering love and support of my parents and the divine guidance of God. Your collective influence has been instrumental in shaping my path, and for that, I am sincerely grateful.

Website: https://ross.house.gov/about

Image Credits
Image Credit – Jeny Khadka