"I grew up in Huntingdon. I was one of those kids who left for college and said I’d never go back. When my dad was sick, I returned to help my parents with their business. I’ve been here since.
I went to Shippensburg University to study psychology. My dad’s side of the family had struggled with various mental health conditions. I wanted to understand it better so I could help others who went through what I did. Once I moved home, the bills were coming due, and I was looking for a job. At that time, my brother was dating the daughter of a judge. The judge encouraged me to apply at the children and youth office because ‘they really needed help.’ In college, I worked as a therapeutic support specialist, which took me into other people’s houses. That experience made me appreciate the home life I had been given. I wanted to continue helping others, so I applied. The first year was rough. As a person living in this community, I was shocked by the things I learned were happening around me, both in and out of the office. I started as caseworker, was promoted to a supervisor within a year, and held that role for twelve years. Even as a casework supervisor, I gravitated to the legal aspects of the job. Burnout was very real. When a paralegal position opened, I saw an opportunity to do more of what I enjoyed while still helping families. All total, I’ve worked in the county for almost 25 years. Staff sometimes come to me and ask what I remember about families we’ve served—multiple generations of the same family. Wherever kids land, you hope you’ve given them enough information to succeed, just like you do with your own kids. Taking care of family is the way it should be. We built an addition on our house, and my mom is moving in with us. We also gather up my husband’s uncle and take him everywhere with us. There’s a place here for him to move in when he’s ready. Sometimes the TV is a little loud, but that’s okay.” - Steph, Paralegal
We Are Voce is a series featuring the unique voices of Voce staff, highlighting the experiences, perspectives, and passions of the people who make a difference every day. This series celebrates the people and stories that bring our mission to life.
