From Part-Time to Full-Time Purpose
“Bell truly has a home-like atmosphere, allowing us to build relationships that are lasting and meaningful.”
It is often the small steps we take that lead to our greatest journeys.
What began as a part-time job grew into a lifelong career dedicated to mental health advocacy and empowering lives.
Celebrating 18 years with Bell, Lori Leister, Assistant Director of Mental Health Services, has become an essential part of our heart and history. But her journey with Bell began long before that — in 1989.
While attending college, Lori was hired by Kris Stroup, Director of Mental Health Services, as a Recreation Assistant in CRAS (now Launch). In the evenings, she visited group homes, focusing on recreation, helping out with household tasks, and building connections.
Six months later, she stepped into a full-time Resident Counselor role at Daybreak. While finishing her degree, she gained hands-on experience in the mental health field, laying the foundation for what would become her calling.
After completing college, Lori transitioned into a caseworker role in a small office on Philadelphia Street. There, four caseworkers shared a deep belief in Bell’s mission: to provide an environment of support and empowerment where people can improve their quality of living.
In 1994, she became Assistant Program Coordinator — a role she loved because it allowed her to live in “both worlds.”
“You had office responsibilities,” she recalls, “but you still were able to have dinner with folks in the group homes.”
In reflecting on her journey through various roles from part-time to full-time, and eventually into leadership, Lori shared, “I appreciate that people believed in me and that I had something to contribute. I have been able to grow here.”
Lori stepped away for six years to raise her children, but Bell never felt far from her heart. When she was ready to return to the workforce, Bell welcomed her back with open arms. In 2007, she rejoined the team as a part-time Quality Assurance Specialist.
“In this role, we looked at how many people we provide services to, did satisfaction surveys, and chart reviews. These things helped the programs evolve.”
By 2013, she was back full-time, and in 2017, she became Assistant Director of Mental Health Services — a role that reflects not just experience, but her dedication and deep love for the work.
“I have been fortunate to experience various roles, participate in decisions, and receive different trainings. There are opportunities here for employees to grow and feel empowered.”
While her position has changed over the years, what has remained constant is the relationships she has built and nurtured along the way.
“There are several individuals who have participated in our services since I began my work here. It is heartwarming to know they are still engaged. Bell truly has a home-like atmosphere, allowing us to build relationships that are lasting and meaningful.”
At the Drop-In, Lori reconnected with an individual she had supported nearly 30 years ago.
“When I see him now, he will say, ‘Do you remember when we did this?’ Those are the moments that hit your heart and remind you why you do this work.”
Through every role and every season, Lori’s story reflects what happens when opportunity meets belief. From a college student working evenings to a leader shaping mental health services, her journey is one of growth, empowerment, and lifelong connection.
Lori often says she never minds coming to work — it feels like home to her. And we are so grateful she calls Bell home.
When you invest and believe in people, you build more empowered futures for both clients and staff.