What led you to make your career in social work?

I think I was drawn to social work as a product of my upbringing. We’re all capable of being one of the helpers. My parents, my grandparents, and the faith community in my hometown really shaped my values to connect with others. The theories in social work resonate with my way of thinking.  I have seen over & over again that contributing to one’s community – with any gift you have – makes a difference. 

What does a normal day for you at FamilyMeans look like?

The Caregiving & Aging program is always up to something! A large portion of my own time is spent with clients on a 1:1 basis, whether by Zoom, in-person or phone. We’re troubleshooting the everyday needs of family caregivers, planning for the future, and discussing the priorities. My knowledge & experience have given me a strong foundation to be a resource for families. I also really enjoy facilitating groups. There’s an energy when you bring together people who are sharing in an experience & respecting one another’s autonomy. Every day is different for me and I sincerely love my position 

What does being a social worker mean to you, specifically at FamilyMeans?

My social work values & goals align easily with the overall mission & values of FamilyMeans. The unity amongst the leadership and the effort to make our communities stronger is inspiring to me - not only as a social worker, but as a person. Social work is a tricky field to be in because it is broad & intervenes with all members of society at some point. Being a social worker at FamilyMeans is a very natural fit. When someone is seeking help and resources, taking the first steps is hard. FamilyMeans meets people with open minds, ready to listen and equipped with ideas on how to keep moving forward. 

What is the hardest part of your job, and what is the most rewarding?

Like many people, I have days when I am heartbroken. I spend a great deal of time talking about the hardships that come with caregiving for someone with a chronic disease. Loss, death, tragedy, and anger are real emotions that need to be felt to cope with life. Thankfully, I can attest that we have a great team at FamilyMeans who are supportive to one another for those moments when we carry all the heaviness of the day. 

The best part of my day is seeing the successes of FamilyMeans. The looks of relief, happiness, excitement, and inspiration on the faces of those who come & go from our building is energizing – but you have be paying attention. I really enjoy when groups are coming & going from our programs. That’s when you see all the connections happening & people feel less alone. That’s the whole point, if you ask me. 

What led you to make your career in social work?

My mom was a social worker.  It helped me decide to become a social worker.  I got to work with her at Chisago Co. Human Services when I started my career, and it was a great experience.   

What does a normal day for you at FamilyMeans look like?

In between coaching and consultation sessions with clients, I make phone calls to see if clients have their needs met, or if they are struggling and need additional support and resources.  I get to respond to inquiries about our programs and services, meet with people in their homes for respite services and help people get acclimated to our other programs like Community Connections and Day Out/Night Out.  

What does being a social worker mean to you, specifically at FamilyMeans?

I find it a privilege to be in a social worker role helping people when they most need it.  I’m humbled by the amount of courage and strength people have.  I get to share resources and help people find their way through the caregiving journey. People are hungry for information and to know you’re making a positive difference in their lives means the world to me.  The fact that FamilyMeans has SO MUCH to offer people makes it a wonderful place to work. 

What is the hardest part of your job, and what is the most rewarding?

Seeing all the grief people hold may be the hardest part.  As a social worker, I must make sure I don’t take that on personally.  The most rewarding is when someone tells me they don’t know what they would have done without our programs and services.