From Caregiving Roots to Branch Management

Growing up, Victoria was no stranger to the caregiving world. Her mother worked as a caregiver in their community, often taking Victoria along during long shifts. “It was very normal for me to be in the elderly setting and automatically jump in and help,” Victoria recalls. With a natural inclination towards caretaking, she found herself looking after her siblings at a young age.

Post-high school, Victoria dove into interpersonal communication and joined Northwest Youth Services, a program designed for youths needing direction and support. The program funded her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training, leading her to start her caregiving journey on her very first day at a rehab facility. The experience was tough; Victoria considered leaving due to the emotional toll. However, she persevered, finding purpose in providing companionship and making the patients’ lives a bit brighter.

Her dedication led her to specialize in dementia and med-tech, eventually becoming the lead med-tech at a facility. She further honed her expertise as a memory care coordinator, where she managed a team of caregivers and developed a deep appreciation for dementia care. After a stint at Skagit Valley Hospital, Victoria joined Family Resource Home Care, working her way up from staffing coordinator then to client care and eventually becoming the Skagit/Whatcom/Island County Branch Manager in December 2022 and onboarding the Bellingham Branch in January 2024.

Victoria’s commitment to Family Resource Home Care is unwavering: “I’m hoping that when I’m at a point where I need care, FRHC can help me age.” With her family fully invested in Family Resource Home Care’s “Improve More Lives” mission, Victoria aims to continue growing within the organization. “A big passion of mine is to help others grow and pass on my pearls of wisdom, which have led me to great things so far,” she shares.

Guiding Caregivers with Real-Life Experience

Victoria’s firsthand experience as a healthcare professional equips her to guide and support the caregivers under her supervision effectively. She emphasizes the importance of empathy and real-life experience in orientation sessions. “There is so much potential for growth, and I have been there in almost every scenario that you will face,” she assures new caregivers.

Victoria firmly believes that healthcare is not black and white; it’s both challenging and rewarding. She stresses the significance of hands-on training and maintains a humble approach, acknowledging that she is no better than anyone else on her team. “Shifting the perspective from job duties to what the clients need makes it more relatable,” she adds, encouraging caregivers to constantly ask themselves, “Why am I here?” Victoria really believes that sometimes people just need someone to believe in them, and she wants to be that person.

Advice from Victoria

For new caregivers, Victoria offers invaluable advice: “Don’t be intimidated by a task list; see it as something you do for yourself.” She emphasizes that caregiving doesn’t require a college degree but rather a positive mindset and the willingness to provide quality care.

Tidbits for Success

Victoria shares some insightful tidbits for caregivers to ensure they provide exceptional service:

  • First Impressions Matter: Treat every new client as a first impression, regardless of how many visits you’ve made.
  • Educate and Coach: Don’t hesitate to coach or educate your client, using professional verbiage to set yourself apart and up for success.
  • Ask Personal Questions: Understand your client’s preferences and dislikes to tailor your care effectively.
  • Provide Reassurance: When a client is frustrated, educate them to provide reassurance and encourage open communication.

Join Our Compassionate Team – Culture Beyond Compare

Victoria’s journey from a caregiver to a Branch Manager is a testament to her dedication, passion, and commitment to improving lives. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, highlighting the importance of empathy, continuous learning, and the profound impact caregivers can make in the lives of their clients.

If Victoria’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.