Ryan is a dedicated Audits and Rebates (A&R) Auditor in our utilities department. Working closely with homeowners who are often facing stressful emergency situations, he brings both essential assistance and a deep sense of empathy to his role. Whether he is ensuring a family has a safe, warm home before winter hits or taking the time to truly connect with the people we serve, Ryan is an invaluable part of the team. Read on to learn a bit more about him in his own words!
“Why is this work important to you, Ryan?”
Working in the utilities department comes with unique challenges, as the customers we serve are often in emergency situations. A red-tagged furnace in late September is a scenario nobody wants to face. Feeling the temperatures drop and knowing you might be thousands of dollars away from a warm home can cause debilitating anxiety—especially as rising costs become a crushing financial obstacle for many homeowners. I feel privileged to be part of a program that assists people during these difficult times, and I am especially appreciative of my one-on-one interactions with the homeowners.
For example, I recently met Anthony, a Columbia Gas customer. We were able to assist him with a furnace replacement after his unit was deemed unsafe to use. He came to us at a time when our emergency repair budget was starting to run low, but with help from the Audits and Rebates program, we were able to cover the cost of a new furnace. I spent a few hours at his home, and Anthony was a pleasure to get to know. Over a cup of coffee, he discussed his lifelong passion for art and shared how he has spent substantial chapters of his life advocating for advanced treatments for “cluster headaches”—a painful, misunderstood, and often misdiagnosed condition.
He wanted me to pass along his deep gratitude for the assistance, as the cost of a replacement was a legitimate obstacle for him. As my visit ended, I casually mentioned a leg injury my girlfriend had recently experienced. Anthony immediately grabbed a painting off his wall—a small abstract drawing of a heart—signed it, and asked me to take it home to her. Not every visit is this warm, but interactions like this remind me of the tangible impact our organization makes.
“What is a favorite local hidden gem of yours?”
It may not be the most “hidden” gem in the city, but Soju in Garfield is my favorite restaurant. It’s a Korean spot with just the right amount of fusion. I love their Bulgogi, but if you are looking for a quick meal, their spicy chicken sandwich is next-level. I take anyone here when they visit from out of town. I’ve been trying to frequent them more this year because they were closed for a few months due to a burst pipe. I was worried they might not make it, but thanks to community crowdfunding, they are back up and running. I highly recommend them—if I were a Yelper, they’d easily get five stars!
