At Emmaus, we offer rewarding careers where team members are part of something bigger, making a difference in the lives of the people we serve.
It is not uncommon that meaningful relationships are often formed between our team members and clients, much like the bond shared between Katrina and Tracy.
Just over 4 years ago, Katrina made the decision to move out of her natural home. After choosing Emmaus and her roommates, she met Tracy, one of the Direct Support Professionals who works with Katrina. Their connection was instant.
Katrina met with her care team to create an Individualized Support Plan. The plan focuses on Katrina’s goals to become more independent in areas like household chores, education and recreation. Achieving these goals brings a tremendous sense of pride for both Katrina and Tracy.
Earlier this year, Katrina shared her new goal with Tracy – to get a job. Tracy found a volunteer opportunity that would give Katrina the skills she needed. Katrina now volunteers two days a week at Goodwill, stocking and pricing items. While her co-workers assist her, Tracy is also there for support, too. Katrina has become a popular volunteer and has many customers who stop by just to see her.
In her free time, Katrina enjoys a wide variety of activities including swimming and bowling, and of course, shopping! Crafting jewelry like charm bracelets and necklaces is a hobby she enjoys working on with Tracy.
The pair share a fond memory together of swimming at the pool and riding a tube down a brand-new slide. It was so fun they went back and did it again and again – 15 times! Tracy feels rewarded that she is making an impact in Katrina’s life. But in much the same way, Katrina has impacted Tracy’s life, too. Tracy has a child with similar disabilities and her training at Emmaus allows her to utilize many of the skills she’s learned from her work with Katrina.
“Katrina is family. When I can see I’m making a difference in others, my heart is filled with joy. At the end of the day, I know I’m making a difference in her life and I feel great that I can help Katrina. I know this job is a gift from God.”
If you’re looking to find the fulfillment that Tracy has found with Katrina, please consider joining our family of dedicated Direct Support Professionals at Emmaus.