Kathy has had a long career of working with people with disabilities. She sees the value in her work most in providing an environment where people can realize their self-worth and reach their goals. She feels privileged to share in so many people’s journeys.
Whether it was family, friends, or strangers, I have loved helping people all my life. While in high school one of my teachers called me “Helping Hannah.” I believe everyone should have an opportunity to succeed; it is not our definition of success but each person’s definition. In my first job out of college, I worked in a school district for their Native American program. I had the chance to work with children from pre-school through high school. A fun learning experience!
For the last 37 years, I have been working with people who have physical, cognitive, and mental health disabilities. This experience has come from working at Disability Network Southwest Michigan, two Area Agencies on Aging, nursing facilities, Community Mental Health, and a psychiatric hospital. I am so happy to have had these experiences and have learned so much. I have learned that people all need to share their stories, be loved and accepted for the person they are, and have the right to self-determination. My work has been to provide an environment where people can realize their self-worth and reach their goals. It has been such a privilege to be allowed to share in so many people’s journeys. What a joy to work at what you love and love what you do!