I have been working with Cooperative Care in Wautoma Wisconsin since 2006. Prior to 2006, Finance in various forms, was my career path. My mother had a debilitating stroke in 2001, which opened a world of caregiving, learning and all of the loops and hurdles that entails. She passed in 2007 after receiving services from Cooperative Care toward the end of her life. Through state programs, I was able to work at Cooperative Care and receive earnings for some of the care I was providing to her. During this time, I obtained a CNA license to provide the best care for her and possibly others in the future. Working in service to others and the community was and is fulfilling to me. It causes me to continue working in the field. I have learned the value of culture and democracy from beginning as a Caregiver, advancing to Team Leader, supporting other caregivers and serving on the board of directors. In 2016, I returned to my finance roots and became the Cooperatives’ Finance Manager. In 2021 I became the President of the Board. My future is in managing cooperative finances, caregiving, supporting workers, and advocating for paths that recognize and uplift the field.

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