The Caring Force is pleased to announce that our next TCF Hero Spotlight honoree is Kayla Rose, a residential counselor who works for Vinfen on Cape Cod. Kayla has a deep commitment to the care and advocacy of her clients, frequently speaking up on their behalf both inside and outside the program. Kayla recently volunteered to “embed” at a program for nearly three weeks because she felt a duty to ensure the residents have a comfortable place to be while quarantined.
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Here is what Kayla had to say when we asked about her career in human services:
How did you decide to pursue a career in human services?
“There are so many things that brought me to this field, but if I had to think of the most influential, it would be my desire to help those who are struggling. I, like many of the people we serve on a daily basis, have struggled with mental health for the majority of my life. I remember feeling the frustration and defeat that comes along with navigating a diagnosis and how that diagnosis is not all there is to know about a person.
I wanted to be someone who could help others and let them know they are not alone – that people hear them and care! I couldn’t be more grateful when I saw that job listing for a Group Living Environment in my area. The people we serve have reinforced my drive to be part of the field, and now I am taking the steps to finish my degree and continue learning all there is to know about the field so I can help as many people as I can.”
What is your favorite professional memory?
“How do I pick? I would have to say that my favorite professional memory so far is the ‘embedding’ I was just in. I spent 14 days in a group home with some of the most amazing people I know. It’s my favorite because for those 14 days we worked as a team to navigate uncharted waters. We had lots of laughs, but it was how we made it through the hard times that was inspiring. Everyone in that house was a member of a team in their own way and it was really special to be a part of. I learned so much about myself, fellow staff and the people we serve.”
How have you coped with the challenges of the pandemic?
“I try my best to remember that while the pandemic is something that is happening now, it’s not forever. I stay in the day and set a goal to laugh and have fun and then make it happen! This is something that I know helps me, but I also think that keeping the day fun has been really helpful for those around me as well during all of this.”
Do you have a question for our next spotlight honoree?
“Is there someone in the field that you look up to? If so, what have you learned from them?”
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Kayla is currently set to earn her bachelor’s degree soon and already has plans to further her education in her field, with a goal of earning a master’s degree in social work. Thank you to Kayla and all the other tireless staff helping to provide services to clients and families throughout the pandemic. You are our human services heroes!
The Caring Force will be publishing additional workforce spotlights through the pandemic in an effort to raise the voices of workers on the front lines. If you know someone who inspires clients and embodies the spirit of The Caring Force, please nominate them by emailing Ravi Simon at rsimon@providers.org.
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