How a Heart for Helping Turned into a Lifelong Career

If you’ve ever met Amy Gobel Valencia, Caregiver Manager at Family Resource Home Care, you’ll quickly learn that caregiving isn’t just her job—it’s her calling. Her journey started all the way back in 1997 when she was a college student. A classmate asked her if she needed a job and invited her to help out in their adult family home. That moment sparked what would become a decades-long passion for caregiving. Amy stayed with that first family for ten years, helping with up to five clients while also navigating the chaos of three children in the home. At the same time, she also worked in a facility supporting adults with disabilities.

Then life took an unexpected and painful turn. In 2006, Amy lost her husband in a car accident. The loss led her to move from Tillamook to Forest Grove, Oregon for a fresh start and to be closer to support systems. She became a teaching assistant for children with disabilities and finished her associate’s degree. From there, she worked as a lead caregiver at a home care agency in the area, and eventually stepped into management. For eight years, Amy ran two group homes, overseeing care for 10 clients and leading a team of 17 staff. Even then, she didn’t know she was being shaped into a leader who would one day thrive in the Caregiver Manager role.

Life called for another pause before she made her next big leap. In 2020, Amy had plans to reenter the field, but her father’s declining health and her sister’s presence led her back to Walla Walla, Washington, to be close to family. There, she took on a role as a training and development manager at a local home care agency, teaching CPR and First Aid and rekindling her passion for empowering others through education.

It was during this time that she found Family Resource Home Care. “I interviewed with Michelle, Laura, and Tracy, and I knew this place was something different,” she shared. Amy joined the team in 2023, and although she briefly stepped away, she quickly returned. “I love the clients and the caregivers. I’ve done so much caregiving, but management and training—that’s my sweet spot,” she says. “This is my calling. I’ve tried to leave caregiving, but I always come back. I went to college to be a teacher, and now I get to teach every day. We really need to take care of our people, and it’s so important we do it right.”

Leading with Experience, Empathy, and a Whole Lot of Heart

What makes Amy an extraordinary Caregiver Manager is that she’s walked in the same shoes as the people she now leads. Her extensive caregiving background gives her an advantage when it comes to coaching new caregivers. “Just being able to give them stories of similar situations helps,” she says. “Yes, maybe a client is upset, but give them a minute, listen to them, offer suggestions.”

Amy emphasizes the importance of communication, patience, and preparedness. Her approach is simple but powerful: be kind and firm, explain the ‘why,’ and give caregivers the tools they need to succeed. She believes in shadow shifts, hands-on training, and fostering a culture where caregivers can grow into the very best versions of themselves. “Being a manager who used to be a caregiver is such an advantage. You really understand the day-to-day struggles. I’m not perfect, but I really try to guide with empathy.”

Amy’s Advice from the Heart

To new caregivers, Amy offers wisdom grounded in experience and compassion. “When I first started, I was scared to death,” she recalls with a laugh. “But when you learn, and you have a team like the one at Family Resource Home Care, you’re supported every step of the way.” She speaks of the lifetime bonds that come from caregiving, like the client she still keeps in touch with who relocated. “It’s so rewarding. Sometimes you’re the only person someone sees all day. That companionship means everything.”

She also emphasizes how caregiving has helped her advocate for her own family. “It gives you so much education to navigate care. You’re more prepared.” Amy believes strongly in paying it forward—using her experiences to uplift and mentor others.

For clients, Amy offers reassurance and encouragement. “Accepting that you need assistance after a long, fulfilling life is okay. We have amazing, certified caregivers who can help with so many things—from personal care to companionship. Creating that match and bond can be life-changing. Let us lighten your load so you can focus on yourself.”

Looking Ahead

Amy is especially excited about the new in-house HCA training program and looks forward to being involved hands-on. “I get to teach, support, and be part of something that’s truly making a difference,” she says.

In every chapter of her journey—from caregiver to teacher to manager—Amy’s story is rooted in love, service, and an unwavering dedication to people. At Family Resource Home Care, she’s not just managing caregivers—she’s inspiring them, one story at a time.

Join Our Compassionate Team – Culture Beyond Compare

If Amy’s journey has sparked your interest in the fulfilling world of caregiving, we invite you to embark on your own transformative path. Family Resource Home Care is always on the lookout for dedicated individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. With over 40 locations spanning across Washington, Oregon, Colorado, and Idaho, there’s an opportunity waiting for you to join our compassionate community. Whether you’re an experienced caregiver or considering a career change, take the leap and explore the rewarding realm of caregiving with us. Discover the joy of creating meaningful connections and making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Your journey begins here – join us in spreading warmth, care, and support.