ABOUT: Jeremiah McCaffity is the Community Service, Restitution and Teen Court Program Manager for Communities In Schools of Chatham County. A native of Chapel Hill, McCaffity now lives in Greensboro. He has a degree in psychology and criminal justice from UNC-Charlotte and has worked with CIS since 2017.
What’s unique about what you do for a living?
My passion is for helping divert youth from lifestyles that could lead to them being caught up in the criminal justice system. I have the opportunity to create enriching community service opportunities all around the county that teach youth work ethics, responsibilities and perhaps spark an interest in a passionate career.
What was your first paying job, and what did it teach you?
Chick-fil-A was my first job and I learned valuable people skills, how to be a gentleman and say “my pleasure” to individuals who were sometimes not a pleasure at all. I learned discipline and the power of serving.
What’s the most difficult job you’ve ever had?
I worked as Order Filler in Walmart Distribution in Mebane and I would stack pallets in a freezer that was -10 degrees for 12-14 hours per day on production.
What part of your job would most surprise people?
Most of the youth I work with are not “bad” and could benefit from positive role modeling.
What advice would you give someone considering doing the same line of work as you?
“Do your best and forget about the rest?”
Who is your personal hero?
Storm [of Marvel Comics’ X-Men]! She’s beautiful and I love her superpowers that seem natural, like her ability to control the weather and fight off assailants.
Your ultimate “happy place”?
I want to go back to Dubai, drive a Ferrari and blend in the customary wear.
Favorite weekend getaway:
I went to New Orleans with family and it felt like another world. The music felt like it brought me to my roots.
Which do you like better: starting or finishing?
I am thorough and like to finish anything I start. I prefer to use good judgment, logic and do not like to start a project and not finish it.
Favorite character from a Disney movie:
Goofy was goofy and he was my fave.
Life on other planets? Yes or no?
Ain’t anybody got time for that.
Stay up late or get up early?
Late but I am goal-setting to catch the worm.
Does the early bird really get the worm?
Yes.
Least favorite saying, and why you don’t like it:
“I can’t” — because “Yes, we can!”
On a snow day, you’d stay home and binge-watch:
“Home Alone”
Dogs or cats?
Dogs
What celebrity would you most like to hang out with for a day?
Deepak Chopra.
Words or phrases you overuse:
Absolutely.
Who’s your favorite athlete, and why?
I like Russell Westbrook [of the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder] because of his determination and loyalty to his team. He has been through adversity and that seems to fuel him and he has charitable organization such as “Why Not” and a fashion line.
What’s your favorite one-day travel destination?
I studied abroad in London, England my last semester at UNCC and visited Dubai, Berlin, Barcelona and a few other places.
What’s the best way you know to spend $20?
I break $20’s on Chinese food.
If you could eliminate any invention, what would it be?
Cell phones and social media.
The best advice you ever got was:
This Maya Angelou quote: “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”
What would be your last meal?
You can find me as Best Food Cafeteria in Siler City.
If you were given $5,000 to donate to a non-profit organization, which would you pick – and why?
Communities In Schools Chatham County is a dedicated organization with staff devoted to the underdogs/outcast of society and improving Chatham County.
Would you go bungee jumping or skydiving?
Bungee Jumping maybe, skydiving no.
Do you have a tattoo?
No.
Favorite season?
Winter.