Sometimes the career you're meant for finds you when you least expect it.
When Eve Buettner joined Immanuel as a part-time dietary server while finishing college, she was simply looking for a flexible job. She never imagined that opportunity would lead to a career serving seniors and supporting families through some of life's most meaningful moments. Today, Eve serves as Social Services Supervisor at The Lighthouse, an Immanuel skilled nursing and long-term care community in Omaha.
As part of Immanuel’s My Story, Our Mission video series, hosted by Jameon Rush, Director of Marketing, and Chrissie McDaniel, Manager of Talent Acquisition, Eve shares how her journey has been shaped by relationships, compassion, and a desire to serve others.
Eve's career at Immanuel has been anything but traditional. After starting at The Lighthouse in dietary services, she accepted a full-time administrative assistant role at Lakeside. Just weeks later, she was encouraged to apply for an opening as a social worker at The Lighthouse.
Although the opportunity felt intimidating, she trusted the encouragement of her leaders and took the leap. That decision ultimately led her to discover a passion she didn't know she had.
"I've always been person-centered," Eve said. "The relationships I've been able to build are probably my favorite part."
For Eve, the most rewarding part of her role is the opportunity to walk alongside residents and families during times of transition.
As a social services professional, she helps advocate for residents, coordinate resources, and provide support during difficult and often emotional circumstances. While every situation is different, the goal remains the same: helping residents receive the care, dignity, and support they deserve.
One experience that stands out involved a resident whose health changed unexpectedly just before a planned discharge home. As circumstances evolved, Eve helped navigate care options and advocate for the resident's needs. During the resident's final days, the family took time to thank her for the support she had provided.
"It was so unexpected," Eve said. "I'm just doing what is right and what's needed in the moment."
Ask Eve what makes The Lighthouse special, and the answer comes down to the people.
She points to the community's long-tenured leaders, dedicated team members, and resident-centered culture as key reasons why The Lighthouse feels different from traditional perceptions of skilled nursing care. Every decision is guided by what's best for residents, creating an environment where both residents and team members can thrive.
Even on difficult days, Eve says the support of her colleagues makes all the difference. "It's hard, but it does fill my bucket," she said.
Eve's passion for building relationships doesn't end when she leaves The Lighthouse.
Outside of her role at Immanuel, she works as a realtor with her family's boutique brokerage, helping clients navigate one of life's biggest decisions. While real estate might seem very different from social services, Eve sees a common thread connecting both roles: people. Whether she's helping a family find the right home or supporting residents and loved ones through a transition in care, she values the opportunity to build trust and meaningful connections.
When she's not working, Eve enjoys spending time with friends, renovating the home she recently purchased, and developing her green thumb. Gardening has become one of her favorite hobbies, and she's even found ways to share that passion with residents at The Lighthouse. From growing vegetables in her own garden to helping residents care for plants and patio gardens, Eve enjoys creating opportunities for connection through shared interests.
Those activities help recharge her outside of work, while reflecting the same spirit of care, patience, and relationship-building that she brings to her role every day.
Whether she's helping families navigate a challenging transition, working alongside her teammates, or finding ways to engage residents through shared interests like gardening, Eve brings Immanuel's mission and CHRIST Promises to life through meaningful connections.
Her story is a reminder that serving others often starts with something simple: showing up, listening, and caring deeply about the people around you.