Today we’d like to introduce you to Norelis De Jesus-Pomales
Hi Norelis, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Hello, my name is Norelis DeJesus-Pomales. I am a single mother with two sons, a daughter, and a granddaughter. I am Puerto Rican. I studied medical secretary in Ponce, Puerto Rico, following my m other’s example as a secretary. In 2000, I decided to join the honorable Puerto Rican police force, mainly because I enjoy the profession and following my fathe footsteps, who was a police officer. I was in the force for over 12 years. And, I loved my career and defending my country. But, unfortunately, one of my children needed medical treatment that wasn’t immediately available in Puerto Rico, and as a mother, I prioritized that. That’s when I decided to move to Cleveland, Ohio, with my two sons and pregnant 13 years ago, with the help of my brother and sister-in-law, who already lived here. I started from scratch, like everyone else. There were times when I slept on the floor, others when I didn’t have anything to eat, and I made many mistakes, like any human being. But one day I decided to start visiting the First Hispanic Baptist Church of Cleveland, and I’ve been there for 13 years. I currently lead almost 60 women and another ministry where we help single mothers and women victims of domestic violence. I was also a victim of domestic violence, and it wasn’t easy to get out of that situation, so I decided to help other women who needed help.
In 2016, I started working at a nonprofit organization that provides treatment for people with drug and alcohol addiction. I started as a billing specialist, then moved up to intake and billing specialist, and now I’m an intake supervisor. I also do billing, assessment, substance abuse counseling, domestic violence counseling, and anger management counseling. And, really loved what I do.
In 2018, I decided to finish my bachelor’s degree. I already had an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Science of Police, and in 2022, I finished my bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Homeland Security. Afterward, I began my master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, which I completed in December 2024. I’m very proud of myself because, despite being a single mother, having a full-time job, and being a leader in my church, I was able to complete my studies. Within the community, I was recognized by the Cohort of 2023 as one of the 100 most-known or influential Latinx people in Cleveland, thanks to Marcia Moreno.
Additionally, I attend different organizations, churches, and schools to give talks on substance abuse, anger management, stress, self-care, and more. I also try to help people in any way I can. On the other hand, I like to dress up as a doll for community fairs, birthday parties, or church events. I like to be cheerful and bring joy to others.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been an easy road. I’ve been a victim of domestic violence, my children and I have been victims of racism, and I’ve been mocked for my accent when I speak English since Spanish is my first language. I’ve been fired from jobs without justification. I was a victim of domestic violence, I haven’t had food, and I’ve slept on the floor after all of these things. It’s been a thorny and tough road. But, I have not given up and I have been an example for my children.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work for a non-profit agency and I’m an Intake Supervisor, but I’m also a Substance Use Disorder Counselor, Domestic Violence and Anger Management Counselor, and whatever they need, I’m always willing to help the community. I’m proud of everything I’ve been able to overcome since I arrived in Cleveland, Ohio. Being able to help people, giving them a ray of hope during the darkness or storm they’re going through. Giving a hug to someone who needs it, even if they’re under the influence of substances or dirty, or giving a hug to that woman who suffered domestic violence abuse and feels like there’s no hope for her. Being able to empathize with others and put myself in their shoes is what
makes me very proud of myy self.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Well, many people don’t know that I was a police officer for over 12 years in Puerto Rico, and when they find out, it’s a complete surprise. People always say, I never imgined it.
Another thing that surprises them is when I say I’m a grandmother. Many don’t believe me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saymar_lola
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Saymar36
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/norelis-de-jesus-pomales-94b9791b7/
