It took thirteen years for Gabriel McQueen to see his dream of serving the Latino community of Anchorage come true. Today, at 34 years old, he is the owner of a company that carries out plans of care for children, adults, and the elderly with physical or mental disabilities, or with complex illnesses.
“First, I was trained and worked as a Medicaid health care coordinator for We Care Coordination for 2 years. With the experience acquired and the State’s certification. I opened my company last October.”
Gabriel was 19 years old when he arrived in Alaska with a work permit to carry out activities in the hotel area, since he had a degree in hotel management. Afterwards, he worked in various jobs in supermarkets and hotels. He had the seed of community service in his heart since his youth. In his native Dominican Republic, Gabriel volunteered in a teen program at his local church.
He confesses that he had mentors who motivated him to create his American dream “One of them was Ninetta Regalado, who teaches me to make visualization maps and believe in my potential. Additionally, I attended book clubs,” he said.
A care coordinator goes into a complex healthcare system and helps clients access the services they need. “I elaborate the plan of care for people, and many times Latinos don’t know, for example, that the government’s health insurance program, Medicaid, is their ‘passport’ to public assistance in terms of benefits like a wheelchair, free or low-cost internet, help with immigration issues or even a ramp to access your home.”
Most of Gabriel’s clients are Latino or Hispanic. “Many of the older adults don’t speak English, so I act as an interpreter as well. I love visiting my elders to socialize in their homes or centers where they live and ensure they receive their benefits. “I do in person visits to hear about their needs and how to best serve them.” Gabriel is married and really likes to enjoy the beaches in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Currently, there are 6 Latino medical services coordinators in Anchorage. To inquire about the services of McQueen Advocacy and Consultants, LLC. You can call 907-885-4327 or write to [email protected].
