Shannon’s Journey of Compassion and Purpose from Caregiver to Client Care Supervisor

Shannon’s Heartfelt Beginning

For Shannon, the path to caregiving began with a dream of becoming a nurse. “Like a lot of us, I wanted to be a nurse,” she shared. After taking all the classes and doing well, Shannon found herself at a crossroads. Despite her efforts, getting into nursing school proved difficult at that moment in time. With a CNA in hand, she faced a question that would shape her career: Did she want to continue pursuing nursing school, or did she want to start helping people immediately?

Shannon chose the latter and became a caregiver. As a single mother going through a divorce, the flexibility of caregiving made it the right fit. “I’ve been doing this for 15 years, working with multiple agencies,” she explained. She initially worked with a private pay agency but began feeling disconnected from the work. “I got tired of helping the ‘wealthy nana,'” Shannon said with a smile. “I wanted to help people who really needed it.” This desire led her to Family Resource Home Care, a company that serves Medicaid clients. “I went from feeling like ‘the help’ to being the light of people’s days because of the gratitude and love they expressed. That was where I was needed.”

Embracing New Challenges

Shannon thrived as a float caregiver at the Portland West Branch, loving the variety and the ability to bounce around different clients daily. “It was super fun,” she recalled. However, when an opportunity arose to manage a house of clients with developmental disabilities, Shannon faced another decision. As much as she enjoyed her new role of managing the home, she couldn’t let go of Family Resource Home Care. “I love this company, how much we’re helping, and how many lives we touch,” she said. Shannon applied for the Client Care Supervisor position and is excited to continue her journey with Family Resource Home Care. “I don’t regret not going to nursing school. My life journey is where it should be, and I’ve enjoyed every moment,” Shannon reflected.

Staying True to Her Roots

Now, as a Client Care Supervisor, Shannon brings her extensive caregiving experience to her new role. “It’s so unpredictable that it makes it predictable,” she said, reflecting on the many personalities and situations she’s encountered over the years. For Shannon, everything boils down to one key factor: listening. “They just want to be listened to. Everything will fall into place,” she explained. In her role, she is committed to following through, doing everything she can to be true to the promises she makes.

Though her job has shifted from hands-on caregiving to more behind-the-scenes work, Shannon believes her role hasn’t changed much. “I’m still asking, ‘What can I do for you?’” she shared. When she meets with clients for assessments, she can speak to them from experience, having been a caregiver herself for 15 years.

Shannon takes pride in lifting up both clients and caregivers. “Today, I was able to tell a caregiver how amazing she is, and I feel proud of that because then the caregiver can pass that good vibe onto the client.”

The Heart of the Work: Compassion and Care

At the core of Shannon’s approach is genuine care for the people she serves. “I would tell the family of the client that her heart is safe with us because we are a family. It’s in the name,” Shannon said, smiling. “We’re going to take care of her as if she was our own.”

To Shannon, caregiving is more than just physical tasks. It’s about building up clients and making them feel loved and important. “Even the difficult clients—most people just want to feel loved,” she explained. She strives to create that sense of warmth and care in every assessment she conducts.

No Regrets, Just Passion

Looking back on her journey, Shannon feels nothing but gratitude for the path she’s chosen. “I do love my job and how important it has been in my life, even through the difficult times,” she said.

Shannon’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose. From the challenges of single motherhood and career pivots to finding her calling in helping those who need it most, her journey is a testament to the power of caregiving—and the joy that comes from making a real difference in the lives of others.

Join Our Compassionate Team – Culture Beyond Compare

If Shannon’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 30 locations spanning across Washington, Oregon, 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.