This website is intended as a comprehensive professional history. A condensed resume is available upon request.

 

Caregiver – Community Vision, Portland

 

In 1994 I began my long-term career in caregiving with Community Vision. I started working with a client who had Cerebral Palsy, under the guidance of supervisor Donna, who mentored me in both professional and personal growth. Over the years, I developed extensive experience in hands-on care, accessibility problem-solving, and staff training.

 

Responsibilities & Skills:

Provided full personal care, including hygiene, dressing, feeding, and showering

Assisted with transfers, pivoting, and mobility support for varied environments

Planned and prepared meals, performed household cleaning, and supported daily activities

Implemented accessibility solutions for indoor and outdoor spaces, camping, public transit, and recreational activities

Supervised, coached, and trained other staff members

Offered overnight and extended weekend support (up to 48-hour shifts)

Developed strong nonverbal communication skills and adaptive strategies for client engagement

Supported the client’s family and helped navigate interpersonal dynamics

 

This job lasted for 2 and a half years through Community Vision, but I worked for this client for more than a decade through various agencies, and maintained a meaningful personal and professional relationship with her, she became like family.

 

This experience laid the foundation for the next 35+ years of caregiving work.