At Immanuel, careers aren’t just jobs: they’re journeys filled with growth, purpose, and community. That’s the heart behind My Story, Our Mission, a new video series hosted by Chrissie McDaniel, Manager of Talent Acquisition, and Jameon Rush, Director of Marketing. Each episode spotlights real stories from team members who embody Immanuel’s mission.
One of those voices belongs to Katie Swan, a social worker at Immanuel Courtyard, who shares the story of her inspiring career path from server to social worker.
Katie’s story began at just 18 years old, working as a server at Pacific Springs.
“It just sounded like a fun way to get a couple of extra bucks after school,” Katie says. But what started as a part-time job quickly became a calling.
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Katie stepped up. She became a lead server, then earned her Med Aid 40 certification. She eventually transitioned into a care partner role.
“We needed more people to fill those shifts,” she says. “It was enough to send me to my MA 40 class.”
Through college, Katie continued serving residents while pursuing her bachelor’s degree in social work. Then, a conversation with a former colleague led her to apply for a social worker position at Immanuel Courtyard.
“It was such a blessing,” Katie says. “God’s providence really shone through.”
Katie’s experience at Immanuel, and even outside of it, confirmed what makes us unique. “The ‘Here for you. Not for profit’ … you just feel the difference,” she explains. “At other places, everything felt like a bottom line or a deadline. At Immanuel, it’s about dignity, joy, and supporting each other.”
That sense of purpose drives Katie every day. “Honoring someone’s dignity at any age, that’s what I enjoy most,” she says. “Just because you’re an older adult, doesn’t mean you aren’t worth someone’s time, energy, or joy.”
Katie’s journey is just one example of how Immanuel invests in its people. Whether you’re starting as a server, a nurse, or in culinary services, there’s room to grow and a team ready to support you.