At CK Family Services, some of the most impactful work happens behind the scenes, where the day-to-day operations run smoothly, thanks in large part to the dedication of our incredible front office team. This month, we’re giving you a closer look at the Arlington and Plano offices, where three extraordinary women—Lori Kay Park, Lori Hunt, and Phunh Soto—keep things running like clockwork.
The Arlington Front Office: Organized Chaos with a Smile
Lori Kay Park and Lori Hunt, affectionately known as the “Two Loris,” are the Front Desk Coordinators in our Arlington office. Together, they manage a wide array of responsibilities, from entering child placements into the database to tracking data for accounting, handling facility issues, keeping the kitchen stocked, preparing for trainings and lunch meetings, answering the phone, and even changing the toilet paper roll when needed! They’ve lovingly dubbed their office “Crazyland” due to the constant activity and occasional shenanigans that make every day unique.
Lori Hunt recalls the hilarity of watching fully grown employees knocking each other out of the way during a company Easter egg hunt. But amidst the laughs, there are heartwarming moments, like seeing a child’s face light up at the gift of a new toy or even just a sticker, or watching a family bond over tickets to a Rangers game. Of course, there are also challenges—from chasing children down the hall as their parents meet with therapists to calming frightened little ones during tough moments.
Plano’s Front Office: The Hub of Help and Hospitality
In Plano, Phunh Soto wears multiple hats as both the Front Desk Coordinator and the Family Quality Specialist (FQS). She keeps the office stocked with snacks, supplies, and a welcoming atmosphere while supporting families and case managers with document tracking, training reminders, and more. Phunh’s desk offers a view of the front door and parking lot, providing her with a front-row seat to the unexpected—lost Uber drivers, misdelivered packages (like 15 cases of protein powder!), and people stopping in for help, including a young woman in need of shelter, folks asking for assistance in finding a job, and a grandma searching for her crochet class. She also regularly fields unusual inquiries, such as visitors asking if the office conducts wellness exams or bloodwork, adding a dose of humor to her daily routine.
Phunh’s knack for building relationships extends beyond the office. She recently struck up a conversation with Sean Herington from Texas Shred during a visit and learned about his adoption story. That connection led to CKFS contracting with his company, a small but meaningful example of how her open-door policy creates opportunities.
More Than Job Titles
These ladies hold official titles, but their contributions go far beyond. They are Cheerleaders, Encouragers, and Amateur Counselors. They serve as Gatekeepers, Hospitality Managers, Maintenance Liaisons, and Data Processors. They handle so many unseen tasks, from purchasing supplies and decor to ensuring staff and visitors feel welcome.
Lori Kay, Lori Hunt, and Phunh embody the heart of CKFS. They are the first smiling faces our guests see, the listening ears our staff lean on, and the problem-solvers who keep the wheels turning. As Phunh says, “My door is always open.”
So, the next time you visit CKFS, take a moment to say hello to these incredible women. They are the unsung heroes of our mission, ensuring that every child, family, and staff member receives the support they need to thrive.
