The Caring Force is honored to announce Murphy Hagerty as our TCF January 2025 Workforce Hero Spotlight honoree. Murphy is the newly promoted Assistant Manager at BILT (Bridging Independent Living Together, Inc.).
1. Tell us about your background. How did you decide to pursue a career in human services?
The Caring Force is honored to announce Murphy Hagerty as our TCF January 2025 Workforce Hero Spotlight honoree. Murphy is the newly promoted Assistant Manager at BILT (Bridging Independent Living Together, Inc.).
1. Tell us about your background. How did you decide to pursue a career in human services?
My journey started mainly because of my mom. She was a firefighter but later became a nanny. When I got into high school, I would often tag along with her and help out. When my mom wasn’t available, I would step in to help, and things naturally began to fall into place.
I transitioned to working at a daycare, which led to finding more families who needed support. While there, I worked with a child diagnosed with Down syndrome who I developed a great relationship with. I had a lot of fun during that time, especially when I participated in the summer camp the daycare hosted. From there, I worked with a family who had children with disabilities. Finally, through a connection from my brother, I discovered BILT and became involved there.
2. What does a typical day look like for you at your organization?
At the center, my day typically involves working closely with our individuals and focusing on their unique needs. I often dedicate time to small but meaningful tasks, such as teaching them how to zip-up their jackets. These little steps contribute to fostering their independence.
A key aspect of my role is maintaining open and consistent communication with families. This collaboration is essential to support their goals and ensure alignment in helping the individuals achieve progress. I work with them on various “independence goals,” including improving their communication, mobility, and other essential life skills.
Throughout the day, I make a point to engage with individuals by talking with them about their days and building rapport. I also enjoy incorporating fun and creativity into my work, whether it’s playing games, creating art, or participating in our gaming class. The gaming class, in particular, is a highlight for me—seeing a whole different side of their personalities emerge during the session is incredibly rewarding. I also recently started working with individuals as a health and fitness coach, where I’ve created personalized fitness routines for two specific individuals. I focus on adapting to their needs and meeting them where they’re at to support their goals effectively.
In addition to coaching, I also help individuals volunteer to develop essential life skills. One of the activities I lead involves practicing public transportation skills. Together, we take the bus to the MBTA, helping them build confidence and independence in navigating public transit.
3. What is your favorite professional memory?
I would have to say that playing games and building a rapport with the child diagnosed with Down Syndrome was a pivotal moment for me at my daycare job. It truly sparked my desire to work with individuals with disabilities and set me on this path.
4. This question is from our December Workforce Hero, Heidie J. Jean: What strategies do you use to prevent burnout, especially when faced with difficult cases?
I enjoy skiing and building Legos, as they help me relax and find calm. I also love drawing and exploring artistic creativity, which allows me to express myself in unique ways.
5. Do you have a question for the next person we spotlight?
What was a defining moment or experience that shaped your passion for what you do?
Thank you so much to Murphy and all of our wonderful human service workers across the Commonwealth who bring joy, positivity and passion to work every day! We are so thankful for you and your efforts to make Massachusetts a better place.
My journey started mainly because of my mom. She was a firefighter but later became a nanny. When I got into high school, I would often tag along with her and help out. When my mom wasn’t available, I would step in to help, and things naturally began to fall into place.
I transitioned to working at a daycare, which led to finding more families who needed support. While there, I worked with a child diagnosed with Down syndrome who I developed a great relationship with. I had a lot of fun during that time, especially when I participated in the summer camp the daycare hosted. From there, I worked with a family who had children with disabilities. Finally, through a connection from my brother, I discovered BILT and became involved there.
2. What does a typical day look like for you at your organization?
At the center, my day typically involves working closely with our individuals and focusing on their unique needs. I often dedicate time to small but meaningful tasks, such as teaching them how to zip-up their jackets. These little steps contribute to fostering their independence.
A key aspect of my role is maintaining open and consistent communication with families. This collaboration is essential to support their goals and ensure alignment in helping the individuals achieve progress. I work with them on various “independence goals,” including improving their communication, mobility, and other essential life skills.
Throughout the day, I make a point to engage with individuals by talking with them about their days and building rapport. I also enjoy incorporating fun and creativity into my work, whether it’s playing games, creating art, or participating in our gaming class. The gaming class, in particular, is a highlight for me—seeing a whole different side of their personalities emerge during the session is incredibly rewarding. I also recently started working with individuals as a health and fitness coach, where I’ve created personalized fitness routines for two specific individuals. I focus on adapting to their needs and meeting them where they’re at to support their goals effectively.
In addition to coaching, I also help individuals volunteer to develop essential life skills. One of the activities I lead involves practicing public transportation skills. Together, we take the bus to the MBTA, helping them build confidence and independence in navigating public transit.
3. What is your favorite professional memory?
I would have to say that playing games and building a rapport with the child diagnosed with Down syndrome was a pivotal moment for me at my daycare job. It truly sparked my desire to work with individuals with disabilities and set me on this path.
4. This question is from our December Workforce Hero, Heidie J. Jean: What strategies do you use to prevent burnout, especially when faced with difficult cases?
I enjoy skiing and building Legos, as they help me relax and find calm. I also love drawing and exploring artistic creativity, which allows me to express myself in unique ways.
5. Do you have a question for the next person we spotlight?
What was a defining moment or experience that shaped your passion for what you do?
Thank you so much to Murphy and all of our wonderful human service workers across the Commonwealth who bring joy, positivity and passion to work every day! We are so thankful for you and your efforts to make Massachusetts a better place.
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