Marilyn's Career Journey
After graduation, Marilyn served as a full time case worker for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Inc. She developed a Sisters Plus program for teen mothers, matching each with a mentor/Big Sister to help them and to be a support. She also designed a brochure and worked with the Harrisburg School District to get referrals. At the same time she was at Big Brothers/Big Sisters, she worked weekends as a Weekend Houseparent for Lourdeshouse Maternity Home. After about five years, Marilyn assumed a full time position as social worker at Evergreen House, a transitional housing program for women and their children. While there, she maintained her part time post at Lourdeshouse. After a number of years, Marilyn transferred to Lourdeshouse Maternity Home as full time program director. Later, however, she resigned this position in order to stay home with her boys while they were young. Catholic Charities kept her on the payroll, so she started working for them again about 6 months after leaving full time work. Her part time role was as a Resident Attendant at Interfaith Shelter for Homeless Families. When she returned to work full time, she became a case manager at Interfaith Shelter for Homeless Families. She also served as an interim program director when the director was on medical leave since she was the only one who knew how to do all of the reports each month, due to her prior experience at Lourdeshouse. After ten years at the Interfaith Shelter, Marilyn left Catholic Charities and became a case manager for the Brethren Housing Association, where she works today. Her position title has now changed to Family Advocate.
Working as a Family Advocate
Marilyn works at Brethren Housing Association. She assists the families in this program to develop and achieve life changing goals surrounding employment, education, parenting, relationships, health, and housing--all geared toward strengthening the families stability and self-sufficiency. Marilyn experiences a great deal of fulfilment in this position and intends to stay with Brethren Housing for years to come.
Marilyn's Advice
"It is important not to pressure yourself into finding that perfect job in this field right out of school. You may have to try on a few roles before you find what you are good at and what really gives you joy! God has given each of us special talents and skills which we need to discover and even develop while we are serving others. It may take several years until you actually discover what you really love! I would also say that this work can be very discouraging at times. You may feel overwhelmed and even useless at times with the amount of suffering and need that you will see in the families you serve. Do not give up hope! Continue to encourage them and give them someone that they can trust and talk to about their lives. This connection to another person is sometimes all that they needed at that time. Practice self-care and know when you need a break! This will make all the difference in the world!"