Discovering a New Path
After joining the military straight out of high school, Autumn Kalmus sought adventure and the means to fund her college education. Initially planning to serve for four years, her time extended to eight, driven by the experiences and connections she made along the way. However, around her sixth year, Autumn realized that her true calling was to help people. As a mechanic, she found herself unfulfilled, which led her to explore the medical field. Nursing didn’t resonate with her, but healthcare administration did, ultimately guiding her to Family Resource Home Care’s Client Care Supervisor position.
Reflecting on her military experience, Autumn said, “I realized that my purpose in life was to help people, and being a mechanic just wasn’t filling my cup.” This realization set her on a new path, seeking a role where she could make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Finding Fulfillment at Family Resource Home Care
In May 2023, Autumn found the Client Care Supervisor position at Family Resource Home Care in Skagit. The interview process felt comfortable and personal, and she was drawn to the organization’s core values, especially kindness. Family Resource Home Care’s commitment to Medicaid struck a personal chord, given her grandmother’s experiences. Autumn quickly excelled in her role as a Client Care Supervisor, forging meaningful connections with clients and colleagues. Encouraged by her peers—Tracy, Victoria, Stephanie, Laura, Desirae, and Rochelle—she transitioned to the Training & Development Coordinator position, a role she has embraced since May 2024.
Leveraging Experience for Impact
Autumn’s previous experience as a Client Care Supervisor has significantly informed her approach to her current role. “Having that field knowledge for the policies and FRBPs helps,” she explains. This operational perspective allows her to advocate for caregivers and office staff to provide valuable insights into how new projects will be received by those in the field. Her experience in the Client Care Supervisor role has given her a unique viewpoint, enabling her to bridge the gap between policy and practice effectively.
Advice for Aspiring Caregivers
Autumn offers profound advice to others in the caregiving profession: “Have grace with yourself and understand this line of work is evolving and there is always an opportunity to make a difference in impacting someone’s life.” She emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities and being motivated by the purpose of improving lives, often thinking of her grandmother’s situation and the impact of mental health on her life.
The Bigger Picture
In her reflections, Autumn highlights the importance of self-compassion for caregivers, recognizing that clients or their loved ones may act out due to stress and struggles. A poignant moment in her journey was finding a photo of her great aunt’s 102nd birthday celebration, which included a caregiver. This photo symbolized the fulfillment she found in caregiving, something she hadn’t fully appreciated as a child.
Autumn’s journey from a Client Care Supervisor to a Training & Development Coordinator is a testament to the transformative power of finding one’s purpose and the profound impact of caregivers on the lives of others. She exemplifies how personal growth and professional development can intersect to create meaningful and lasting change.
Join Our Compassionate Team – Culture Beyond Compare
If Autumn’s journey has sparked your interest in the fulfilling world of caregiving, we invite you to embark on your own transformative path. Family Resource Home Care is always on the lookout for dedicated individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. With over 30 locations spanning across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, there’s an opportunity waiting for you to join our compassionate community. Whether you’re an experienced caregiver or considering a career change, take the leap and explore the rewarding realm of caregiving with us. Discover the joy of creating meaningful connections and making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. Your journey begins here – join us in spreading warmth, care, and support.
