In the often unseen corners of social work, where compassion meets perseverance, the Foundational Community Supports team is doing work that is as challenging as it is vital. During a recent team conversation featuring Claire Ghering and Courtney Lara, attendees were given a window into the daily triumphs, heartbreaks, and unwavering dedication that define this field. What emerged was a raw and inspiring testament to the power of human connection and collaboration.

One of the stories Claire shared captured the spirit of the team’s work. She spoke about a client she continues to support through the Foundational Community Support (FCS) Program. The woman is still without a proper bed, currently sleeping on an air mattress on the floor. They’re awaiting funding to help get her set up with more permanent and essential items—things most people take for granted, like a bedframe, a dresser, or even a stable space to feel safe. “We’re just helping her body feel safe and housed,” Claire said. And though the situation is far from ideal, she called it “a really sweet story” because of the way so many systems—housing departments, shelters, and coworkers—have come together to make incremental progress possible.

That spirit of collaboration runs deep in the FCS team. “I love that this job is so collaborative,” Claire added. It’s a sentiment echoed by Courtney, who emphasized how strong communication and teamwork are essential to everything they do. “We communicate very well,” she said of the FCS team. “And just the collaboration that we have within the agency and then also the connection that we make—I have a caseload too, and it’s incredible to see members grow and achieve things that at one point, they thought they never could.”

A cornerstone of the FCS approach is person-centered care. As Courtney explained, “It’s all about what they want, their goals, and what they want to achieve. That’s our ultimate goal.” This philosophy isn’t just a policy—it’s a practice woven into every interaction. Whether helping someone navigate the complexities of housing insecurity, managing chronic health needs, or simply being a steady presence during times of crisis, the team tailors their support to each individual’s story.

Michelle Thomas, who facilitated the conversation, noted how important it is to share these kinds of stories. “That’s why we’re here, right?” she said. “Nobody is doing social services to get rich. Hearing about the work that you all do—that’s what keeps us in the trenches every day.”

The conversation turned personal when Michelle asked the team what their favorite part of the job is. Claire answered without hesitation: “The connection.” She described the privilege of being trusted with clients’ stories and lives, and also highlighted the unique bond with coworkers who support each other through both wins and setbacks. For Courtney, it’s both the people she serves and the people she works with: “The connection I make with members—and just seeing them grow—is incredible.”

But not every story ends in success. When asked how they handle the grief of losing a member, both women opened up honestly. “Yeah, that’s a tough one,” Courtney said. “I’ve cried. It takes a strong team. I lean on my team, and they lean on me. We talk it out.” Claire shared a heartbreaking story of a mutual client who passed away alone—no family, no one to arrange a funeral. Part of her grieving process involved wrapping up the client’s affairs, communicating with caregivers, and even taking a call from a friend of the deceased who just wanted to talk about her life. “That’s part of grieving too,” Claire reflected, highlighting how even in death, their commitment to dignity and compassion doesn’t waver.

Fortunately, FCS doesn’t leave staff to carry that weight alone. Rheva, another team member, reminded everyone that there’s a grief and loss support group available in Pullman—open to both staff and members—because caring for others must include caring for ourselves.

In the end, what this conversation revealed is that the FCS team isn’t just delivering services—they’re building relationships, creating stability, and often becoming the closest thing to family some members have. Their work is layered, emotional, and profoundly human. And while it may never make headlines, it’s the kind of work that changes lives—one person, one goal, and one caring connection at a time.