Laurie Holmes

Background

About Laurie Holmes

I have always been a "people person" and celebrated diversity before I even knew what that meant. The Human Services Program with Western Washington University embraces all the beliefs of brotherhood/sisterhood that I have long held. Accepting people as they are and respecting their beliefs and culture is the foundation of being in the 'helping' field. This means treating others with unconditional positive regard. Working with a client from a strengths perspective and respecting his or her right of self determination is also key in effecting positive change. Working with the elderly and vulnerable adults appeals to me on so many levels. In high school I was an aide in the developmentally disabled class for physical education, reading and assisting the speech therapist in my sophomore, junior and senior years respectively. My mother suffered with dementia, probably Alzheimer's and I experienced how this disease affects the whole family and especially the main care giver. I love to learn about people and their individual stories. When I ran my frame shop and heard the stories behind the picture, the flag, the hat, whatever I was going to frame, was so meaningful to me it often brought tears to my eyes. The elders of our society have so much to teach, give and share and I don't believe our high speed/high tech culture is conducive to honoring, listening and spending time with them. My experience working with adults with disabilities has also been very rewarding. I enjoy going with them in the community taking them shopping or to an appointment.