Archive | 2014

By Heather Milewski

Denise Giallombardo embarked on a new chapter in her life at the age of 52. Ready for a fresh start, she went back to school and obtained her Bachelors degree in Human Service at Baker College in 2008. With a background in foster care, Denise switched her focus to older adults, where her passion for this population is apparent. “Senior citizens are so interesting, funny, intelligent, and have so much wisdom to share. So many life lessons and experience in their years.” Denise worked for 7 years as a senior resource advocate for Macomb County before coming to Warren Glenn. She is certified in MiCafe and is also a certified Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program Counselor

Denise is passionate about gardening. Although she lives in an apartment, she is able to focus on indoor gardening and excited for this planting season. Her favorite book is Container Gardening: House Plant Care, which is her bible for gardening. “I read this book at least twice a week.” Denise is also family oriented and has strong ties to her Sicilian heritage. She emphasized how important it is for the younger members of her family to understand their background.

Denise’s favorite quote is from Winnie The Pooh, where Winnie says to Piglet “any day spent with you is my favorite day, so today is my new favorite day.”

By Heather Milewski

Lindsey Kohler began working at Royal Oak Manner in April of 2012. Prior to becoming a service coordinator, Lindsey worked at Beaumont, Catholic Social Services, and for the Disability Network.

Lindsey received her Associates Degree from Oakland Community College in 2005. She went on to receive her Bachelors Degree in 2010 from Baker. Lindsey then completed her MSW at Wayne State University in 2013. During her education, she interned at Grace Centers of Hope and Common Ground. She currently is preparing for her LMSW. Lindsey has not ruled out getting her PHD, but is waiting until her son gets older to take on that educational endeavor.

Lindsey’s hobbies and interests including spending time with her adorable son and traveling. She has traveled to many countries in Europe, the U.K., and even to China. Although she does not have a favorite movie or book, she remembers loving Pride & Prejudice when she was younger.

I had the pleasure of shadowing Lindsey at Royal Oak Manor while completing my internship at Luella Hannan Memorial Foundation. One thing that is apparent is her passion for helping her clients. She has had much experience in the field of social work and “has always been aware of those who struggled but benefited from the field of social work.”