Advocating for human rights, justice, and equality has always been my life’s mission. I’ve spent my career working in veterans’ shelters, group homes, domestic violence shelters, crisis homes, and as a social worker across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Along the way, I’ve carried the stories of the people I’ve served, and they are my motivation for never giving up. Every challenge I’ve faced, every person I’ve met, has led me to Sisu Living, where I can finally make the changes I’ve always believed were needed.

We all have a role to play in creating a more just world. For me, it’s about supporting people where they are, helping them find their inner strength, and empowering them to live their best lives. At Sisu Living, we don’t impose our plans on people; we work alongside them to find solutions that honor their individuality. We believe in doing what’s right, even when it’s not easy, and that the most impactful work we do is often unseen but deeply felt.

“The value of our lives is not determined by what we do for ourselves. The value of our lives is determined by what we do for others.”
– Simon Sinek

My journey began as a Direct Support Professional in a group home in northern Minnesota, where I cared for individuals with disabilities. After taking a break to raise my youngest daughter in Colorado, I returned to Minnesota and advanced into leadership roles. However, I became disheartened by the limited control and lack of reinvestment by larger corporations in both the homes and the people we supported. That led me to leave the industry for a while.

Despite stepping away, my passion for people brought me back. Today, I’m proud to be part of a company that values my input and allows me to directly shape the care we provide. My focus is on meeting the specific needs of each individual we serve, balancing compassion with regulatory compliance to set a new standard for care.

Helping others gives me purpose, and the gratitude from the people we support is priceless. While I have faced personal challenges, my strength comes from seeing the impact we have on others’ lives. Being part of Sisu Living has fulfilled me in a way no other role could. The charitable events we participate in have not only strengthened our community but have brought our management team and staff closer together.

“Tell me and I forget,
Teach me and I may remember,
Involve me and I learn.”
– Ben Franklin

Advocating for human rights, justice, and equality has always been my life’s mission. I’ve spent my career working in veterans’ shelters, group homes, domestic violence shelters, crisis homes, and as a social worker across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Along the way, I’ve carried the stories of the people I’ve served, and they are my motivation for never giving up. Every challenge I’ve faced, every person I’ve met, has led me to Sisu Living, where I can finally make the changes I’ve always believed were needed.

We all have a role to play in creating a more just world. For me, it’s about supporting people where they are, helping them find their inner strength, and empowering them to live their best lives. At Sisu Living, we don’t impose our plans on people; we work alongside them to find solutions that honor their individuality. We believe in doing what’s right, even when it’s not easy, and that the most impactful work we do is often unseen but deeply felt.

“The value of our lives is not determined by what we do for ourselves. The value of our lives is determined by what we do for others.”
– Simon Sinek

My passion for helping others began as a child, inspired by my mother, who was a nurse. I started volunteering at hospitals and nursing homes while in school, and this early experience shaped my career. Over time, I worked with individuals in memory care, group homes, and with those facing developmental disabilities and mental health challenges.

While I loved helping others, I often felt powerless in a system that didn’t allow me to advocate for real change. Now, at Sisu Living, I finally have the opportunity to make the difference I’ve always wanted.

One story that continues to inspire me is the Starfish Story—it reminds me that even small acts of kindness can have a huge impact. Working at Sisu Living gives me the chance to bring that message to life. Our services, like chore assistance and hoarding cleanup, help people at risk of losing their homes. It’s tough work, but seeing the relief and joy on people’s faces when they get a fresh start makes it all worth it.

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” -Anne Frank

My journey began as a Direct Support Professional in a group home in northern Minnesota, where I cared for individuals with disabilities. After taking a break to raise my youngest daughter in Colorado, I returned to Minnesota and advanced into leadership roles. However, I became disheartened by the limited control and lack of reinvestment by larger corporations in both the homes and the people we supported. That led me to leave the industry for a while.

Despite stepping away, my passion for people brought me back. Today, I’m proud to be part of a company that values my input and allows me to directly shape the care we provide. My focus is on meeting the specific needs of each individual we serve, balancing compassion with regulatory compliance to set a new standard for care.

Helping others gives me purpose, and the gratitude from the people we support is priceless. While I have faced personal challenges, my strength comes from seeing the impact we have on others’ lives. Being part of Sisu Living has fulfilled me in a way no other role could. The charitable events we participate in have not only strengthened our community but have brought our management team and staff closer together.

“Tell me and I forget,
Teach me and I may remember,
Involve me and I learn.”
– Ben Franklin