Finding Yourself at Bell: Ashlyn’s Journey
“Seeing the clients thrive and being a part of that is rewarding. Sometimes you don’t realize at the time how much of an impact you have on people.”
Ashlyn, a Case Management Assistant with Next Door, is always on the move. Her energy and determination shine through in everything she does—whether she’s getting her steps in during her lunch break or supporting clients through life-changing moments.
This year marks Ashlyn’s seventh anniversary with Bell. Though she stepped away briefly, she knew she would return.
“Bell is a family. It is like home,” Ashlyn shares. “Here I get to learn, grow, and develop a deeper understanding.”
Her journey began in 2019 at Launch, formerly known as CRAS.
“It was an opportunity to manage group homes and learn how transitional housing works.”
From Launch, she transitioned to CHIPP Assisted Living, where she discovered a great joy in working directly with clients.
“Seeing the clients thrive and being a part of that is rewarding. Sometimes you don’t realize at the time how much of an impact you have on people.”
She also witnessed growth within her team.
“I watched two of my staff become caseworkers and then Assistant Program Coordinators. That was awesome to see their advancement, and it brings me happiness to know that I was part of that process.”
Recently, Ashlyn gained experience at Bell Family Shelter and the Next Door Program. One of her favorite moments is watching motivation spark in someone as they walk through the doors.
“I love it when a client comes in and immediately wants to seek every resource available. They are dedicated. That is why we are here. Being able to help people have another chance is important.”
Working at the shelter and Next Door has profoundly shaped her outlook.
“It is very humbling. Homelessness can happen to any of us. Knowing that has given me a deeper understanding and desire to help. You may not be able to help everyone, but when you help one person, it can mean everything.”
At the shelter, she supported families on their journey, sometimes simply by being a listening ear. Ashlyn witnessed firsthand how quickly lives can change.
“Hearing their stories, the challenges they faced, and seeing them find housing within 30 days—that’s rewarding.”
Now at Next Door, Ashlyn continues to witness the long-term impact of the work. Some of her former shelter clients have successfully transitioned and maintained their independence.
“It’s nice to hear how our program has positively affected their lives. Being able to give them resources or just letting them know someone cares makes a difference.”
What brought her back to Bell, and what keeps Ashlyn here, holds great significance.
“I’ve had some truly great mentors. What really sold me on working at Bell was the longevity of the people around me. That spoke volumes, especially in a field where burnout is very real. I love the fact that the people who surround me have been with Bell for years. I have the opportunity to grow and have a support system that I didn’t have at other jobs.”
Ashlyn also speaks openly about her own challenges, including her battle with depression and what she describes as a second chance at life. Not long after she began her journey at Bell, she faced a difficult time, but her coworkers surrounded her with encouragement and support.
Today, that lived experience fuels her purpose.
“To be able to give back and be that voice of hope for others means the world to me. Bell truly is a community that I am blessed to be a part of.”
Ashlyn is just ten credits away from earning her bachelor’s degree, a milestone she is proudly working toward. Whether continuing her education or growing through various roles at Bell, she remains focused on making a difference.
“My long-term goal is to open safe houses and group homes. Human trafficking is very prevalent in this area, and I want to do something to help.”
For Ashlyn, Bell signifies much more than just a job; it embodies family, personal and professional growth, and a sense of purpose.
It is about finding yourself at Bell.