Leading with Heart and High Expectations

Employee Spotlight: Dr. Karma Russell, Program Director, RISE DeKalb

When CaringWorks Program Director Karma Russell recently earned her doctorate in human services with a specialization in leadership and organizational management from Capella University, it marked another milestone in a career centered on growth, encouragement, and service to others.

Karma, who has worked at CaringWorks for 12 years and in the human services field for more than two decades, said she has always been committed to helping others move forward.

“I just love helping people,” she said. “That’s my passion, to help people grow and understand what’s going on with them and how they can come back from a bad situation.”

Her doctoral studies focused on leadership and program management, helping strengthen skills she uses daily as a leader.

“It helped me learn more about how to lead a program and how to lead a team, as well as how to manage successfully while also being a teammate,” she said.

As part of her doctoral work, Karma completed research focused on residential substance abuse treatment programs and whether clients are equipped to maintain sobriety after treatment. Through interviews, observations, and reviewing program interventions, she said the experience reinforced the importance of supportive services and the successful impact they have on long-term stability.

Karma brings that same belief into her work with clients every day. She said one of her guiding principles is to “meet the client where they are” while encouraging them to aim higher for themselves.

“They tell me that they like how I push them,” she said. “I can tell them they can do anything they want to do.”

That encouragement also extends to her team. Karma believes in including staff in decision-making and setting high expectations because she knows they are capable of excellence.

“I know that they are great, and they can do great work,” she said. “I have high expectations for myself as well.”

Karma credits mentorship as a driving force behind her own educational and professional journey, pointing to leaders at CaringWorks who encouraged her to continue growing and pursuing higher education.

Known for her optimism and positive outlook, Karma said her faith helps keep her grounded in a demanding field.

“I’m a servant of the Lord,” she said.

She added that her relationship with God and her desire to help others continue to guide her work each day.

“I know that I’m in this field for a reason,” she said.

About CaringWorks:

Built on the single idea that all people—no matter their social or economic standing—should have a chance to improve their quality of life, CaringWorks has served thousands of clients since our inception in 2002. Since then we have grown exponentially to become one of Georgia’s leaders in providing permanent supportive housing. We serve hundreds of individuals each year through unique programs and services that are specifically tailored to the needs of those facing chronic homelessness.

Donate today to help us end homelessness.

May 2026