For those who have been following our blog post series featuring the individuals who make our mission possible, you’ve probably picked up on a common theme: serving this community is a reward, one that often feels larger than the efforts of those serving it.
Laura Brennan, Program Manager at our Upton Women’s Program, is the latest embodiment of that spirit: “Your impact as a caregiver sometimes means more than you can imagine, and the people you support can make just as much of an impact on your life as you do on theirs.”
In this feature, Laura shares how she came to work at Turning Point, Inc. and what she hopes will inspire others to support this community.
Full Time Focus
Prior to working for Turning Point, Inc., Laura was employed as a Direct Support Professional by Northeast Residential Services (NRS). Following a friend’s suggestion that she apply to Turning Point on a part-time basis, she was hired and, a few years later, decided that she would rather dedicate her efforts exclusively to Turning Point. She credits her direct manager at the time and the individuals she was supporting as the inspiration to accept a full-time position with Turning Point.
On the Ground Gains
For Laura, witnessing those served by Turning Point not only live their lives, but thrive while doing so, motivates her daily efforts. Specifically, watching them learn new skills and step into a sense of pride for their accomplishments; in other words, “To watch them do things they only ever dreamed of doing and to see them be part of the community in ways they may not have been able to if it wasn't for the services we provide for them.”
Defining Success
One woman in particular stands out in Laura’s mind as the personification of the powerful bonds fostered by Turning Point, Inc. Following years of close collaboration, Laura realized she had fostered an invaluable and lasting relationship. “In a sense, she became part of my family, even my children called her ‘Auntie.’”
An older woman, she had lost most of her family and was technically alone in the world, were it not for Laura and the Turning Point team. Welcoming her into her family circle, Laura recalls, “She would attend special events and holidays with us and it truly warmed my heart to see how happy it made her to have a family again.”
Reflecting, Laura shares, “She would come to my house on the weekends just to hang out, watch TV and have dinner. Sometimes, we would go for rides to get coffee and just chat. She called me every evening at 7:00 pm on the dot just to check in. I loved her very much and miss her every day.”
Two Sides of the Same Coin
Ultimately, everyone working at Turning Point has shared a story about lasting bonds that are truly illustrative of the permanent and positive impact experienced by both those serving and those served.
If you would like to support Turning Point, we invite you to contact us today. Think you might follow in Laura’s footsteps? Check out our Careers page and realize the benefits of working with Turning Point, Inc.
