A Voice That Advocates
Employee Spotlight: Bridget Fogle
Senior Care Coordinator
For nearly a decade, Bridget Fogle has been an advocate for some of the most vulnerable people in our community. But prior to that, it took a big career shift for her to realize her passion.
“After 16 years of working in an office setting, I was laid off. At the age of 41, I took that opportunity to go to school to get my bachelor’s degree in social and behavioral sciences with a concentration in counseling.”
Bridget has been working at CaringWorks for nearly three years, and prior to that she worked at a trauma-informed mental health agency for seven years supporting adults diagnosed with severe mental health issues and a history of trauma.
“I got into this line of work because I wanted to help others improve the quality of their lives and be the voice that advocates to ensure those I help are receiving appropriate services and care.”
In her role as a senior care coordinator at CaringWorks, Bridget provides case management services mostly for single adults, and also for a few families, who have a history of chronic homelessness. She helps connect her clients with resources and services—and access benefits—that equip them with what they need to remain stably housed. She says a big part of her job is being an advocate and supporting clients through whatever struggles pose barriers to stability.
“Most of my clients just need that little bit of encouragement and validation that they are doing well, considering that most of them have been homeless for many years, and acclimating to having a home can be difficult.”
Bridget says she gets a lot of satisfaction from what she does.
“Seeing positive changes in my clients’ lives is highly rewarding. I know that we can’t always help everyone, but if I can help one person reach their goals, I feel like I am doing my job.”
Bridget cautions against stereotyping those who experience homelessness. She says that it’s a complex issue and being involved in this line of work gives her a better understanding of why and how someone might find themselves in that situation.
“Becoming involved in the fight against homelessness is the only way to truly understand when, how, and why individuals or families are struggling with it. There is no mold for who or why someone is homeless; it can be just one situation or one decision that can change anyone’s life dramatically.”
Bridget acknowledges that it’s challenging work, and there are certain qualities for success.
“I think that someone has to be empathetic and understanding, be a strong advocate for their clients, and have respect for a client’s autonomy.”
When asked what her favorite part of her job is, Bridget didn’t hesitate with her answer.
“The best part of my job is easy; the clients! Helping, seeing them smile, listening to their successes, and being a part of their growth is the best part.”
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.
December 2024