Excellence in Action - Taloria Stanley
Social Worker Taloria Stanley's attitude and work ethic embody "Excellence in Action".
Primary Care Social Worker Taloria Stanley has only been at the medical center for almost a year, but is already having a profound effect on the Veterans in her care.
Just ask Korean War Veteran "Duke" Bridges. After a series of health and other issues, Bridges was homeless for over 17 years. When he first met his case manager, Social Worker Taloria Stanley, he wasn’t really open to the idea of housing assistance.
But the social worker was determined to not give up. Her motto is: Your silent presence is more powerful than a million empty words.
She worked on building a relationship with Mr. Bridges based on trust and respect. Her grandfather was a WWII Veteran and her uncle was also active duty. "I have a deep love, passion, and appreciation for service members and their dedication and sacrifice to our country. Working with Veterans helps me honor their memories."
Her work made a big difference in the life of Mr. Bridges. Ms. Stanley reached out to Housing Counseling Services (HCS), a HUD-approved nonprofit organization dedicated to providing counseling and training to low-income tenants. Little by little, with the help of a devoted case manager from HCS, the Veteran started to open up about his struggles and became excited about the prospect of having a home again. In January 2016, he signed a lease and moved into his new home.
Ms. Stanley gives Mr. Bridges all the credit. “The effort he put into working with me to find housing was exceptional. Without his dedication, determination, and trust in me, we might not be telling this remarkable story.”
She loves her job at the medical center. "I don't think I chose a career in social work, I think social work chose me." She loves being able to provide a listening ear and support for Veterans in crisis. "The most rewarding feeling is having a Veteran walk in my office with a frown and walk out with a smile!"
