As Pillars Adult Shelter manager, Lauren’s role is to oversee shelter programming, day-to-day operations, and basic needs-related services for clients experiencing homelessness whose barriers include alcohol and drug addictions, mental health challenges, and employment struggles. She joined the Fox Valley Warming Shelter in the fall of 2016 as shelter manager and has remained in that role through the transition to Pillars Adult Shelter. She has worked in group homes with high-barrier youth and interned at women’s domestic violence and sexual assault homeless centers while in college. Lauren graduated from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point with bachelor’s degrees in social work and sociology and a minor in women’s gender studies.
She points to watching clients make forward progress, flourish, and become proud of themselves as her favorite part of her job. Lauren finds it rewarding when the men and women who come to Pillars Adult Shelter make advances in learning basic life skills, improving their mental and physical health, and obtaining work, income, and housing.
Lauren keeps busy in her free time. She enjoys being outdoors, biking, hiking, swimming, being in the sun! She loves DIY projects and is currently remodeling her new house. Lauren also likes exercising, yoga, and weightlifting, but one of her favorite things to do is go to live music and sporting events.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I am inspired every day by my team, co-workers, and clients. They are amazing. My family and partner are so supportive of my job, and I couldn’t thank them enough. I am also inspired by my faith to continue this work!
What is your favorite quote?
“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Contact:
920.734.9192 ext. 301