Employee Testimonials

Why we do what we do!

“As a parent of a kiddo with Asperger Syndrome Disorder, the First Steps program was introduced to me by a therapist that was working for SIRS and it helped me understand my son's diagnosis, how to parent him in a different way and how to be his advocate through his school years.  I feel that I can relate to our families & build a relationship that makes them feel comfortable and hopefully calm some fears they may have for their child's development & overall success later in life.”

 Janet Burgess,
First Steps Service Coordinator

“I love that I am a part of something bigger than me. I don't do what I do for me; I do it for our participants. It is an honor to serve where I can make a difference and have a positive impact on those we work with.”

Kellie Davis, Employment Consultant
Employment Services

“As a Pre-ETS Career Coach, I work with high school and junior high students across two counties. I guide students through researching career and post-secondary options, using work-based learning to help develop workplace skills, and practicing appropriate self-advocacy. One of the most rewarding lessons I have worked on with students has been discussing hobbies and activities they enjoy and breaking those things down into the skills students have learned from them. Most students are surprised to discover that they already possess many skills that can be applied in their future careers. I want to note how great everyone is to work with, from the students being eager to learn; teachers and school staff doing all they can to ensure we work with all students who would benefit from the program; the staff from other departments, who work in the Washington Center are always willing to share space, information, and a laugh; and my management team who is always incredibly supportive and willing to lend a hand if a student, school, or I need anything. I enjoy working with the students we serve as they navigate the challenges that being a teenager or young adult can bring, while also guiding through exploring the paths they would like to take in life and in helping them discover the endless possibilities that lie before them.”

Michelle Moon, Career Coach
Employment Services

“When I started at Blue River Services, Inc. I had just entered a new chapter in my life. After many years of struggles, I finally had my first daughter just two months before starting here. Motherhood, along with several other very hard obstacles in my life happening at once, had me feeling very vulnerable. From the very first phone call to set up my interview, I have never felt less than appreciated here. At every opportunity here, someone has given me positive affirmations, support, and care. Angie and Liz have walked me through some of my worst days and supported me with no hesitation. I have never worked for an agency that made me feel so appreciated and a part of the team.

Towards the beginning of my employment here, when I was struggling to find my place within the school building and school staff, you said I am here because I had earned it and I had the experience and not to let anyone make me feel like I did not belong here. I think about that comment all the time. I needed that so much at that time not just professionally, but personally. It is a comment that runs through my head and often pushes me through some of my hardest days. I wanted to send this testimonial to you specifically for this reason.

Blue River Services, Inc. – CYS specifically – has brought so much light and love into my life. I have found a sense of peace, light, and new beginnings that I did not know was possible in a workplace environment. Not just management staff, but also my coworkers here at Medora. Appreciative and grateful cannot even begin to cover my feelings towards CYS.

Thank you for all you do and the hard work you put into creating this amazing team. I know CYS has and will continue to change so many lives!” 

Kaylee Carrillo,
Child and Youth Services (CYS)

“I love working as a mental health counselor for Blue River Services because I love being able to connect with students and give them tools to improve their overall well-being. Having the opportunity to meet students where they're at and walk with them through some of their darkest times will always be a privilege I don't take lightly. I'm amazed and inspired by their strength and resilience every day! I love the CYS department because there are always opportunities for growth, training, and collaboration. I appreciate working with a team that supports me and is always there for encouragement or to lend a hand when needed.” 

Lillian Koenig, Mental Health Counselor
Child and Youth Services (CYS)

“I love my job with Blue River Services! I have always loved being around children. My husband and I were foster parents for 20 years. I worked as a Special Education Aide for almost 20 years. When I started working with Blue River Services in the afterschool classroom it seemed like that was where I was needed at the time. I started out with Blue River Services as an EDI, Extended Day Instructor. Within a couple of years I moved up into the Site Coordinator's job. It is my job to enroll students in the program, make a monthly calendar and newsletter, plan the activities every month, work with my after school staff in executing the lesson plans, listening to the students for new ideas of things to do, and making sure everyone is treated fairly. I love getting to know the students that are enrolled in the program at EWES. I enjoy speaking with the parents at pick up times and at our Special Events throughout the school year. Some of the families even treat me like I am part of the family. I have been invited to birthday parties, going to watch movies together, and watch the students in their various sports programs. I love seeing the students' faces when they get excited about the lessons we learn in afterschool activities. The favorite day of the week for the students is Thursday! Thursday is Cooking Club day after school. They all love learning how to make fun and exciting things to eat. I can't think of anywhere else I would rather be working!!!”

Robin Costin, Site Coordinator
Child and Youth Services (CYS)

“Working at Blue River Services as a therapist is incredibly meaningful to me because I’m surrounded by a team that values compassion, integrity, and genuine human connection. I love being part of an organization and having leadership that prioritizes meeting clients where they are and walking alongside them in their growth and healing.”

Amy Catt, Therapist
Child and Youth Services (CYS)

“One of my favorite concepts about CYS Department is that everyone truly tries to be their best self, and encourages one another to be their best self. 

One of my favorite concepts about CYS Department is that they truly value the person as a whole, not just view them as an employee. 

One of my favorite concepts about CYS Department is that they lead by example, offering inclusivity and kindness, just as we teach the children.

One of my favorite concepts about CYS Department is that it feels like family here, celebrating the good times together, but also encouraging one another during the not so good times. 

One of my favorite concepts about CYS Department is that they annually host their employees for a retreat-styled gathering where they invest in teambuilding and collaboration.”

Stephanie Rex,
Child and Youth Services (CYS)-Assistant Director

“I like working for Blue River Services because I have great bosses. I enjoy working with the clients and their families and that my schedule can be flexible.”

Ashley Beard,
Community Resources Department

“I feel like I am part of a family. The comradery Blue River Services has with the clients and the community is amazing.”

Jeannie Rutkowski,
Community Resources Department

“I love this job! Being a DSP means I get to be part of someone’s real, everyday life, not just the big moments but the small ones too. Seeing the persons served achieve their goals and being there for both the great days and the not so easy days means everything to me. I chose this field because I care deeply about dignity, inclusion, and making sure people feel seen and valued. It is more than work, it is a community I truly adore.”

Destinee Soliday,
Community Resources Department

“I love my job at Blue River Services because it allows me to provide a safe, stable, and loving home for individuals who truly need support and connection. Being a structured family caregiving home means I get to build meaningful relationships and make memories that last a lifetime while helping people grow in independence, confidence, and daily living skills. I chose this work because I have a heart for serving others and making a real difference in someone’s everyday life. It’s rewarding to see progress, celebrate small victories, and know that my home can be a place where people feel valued and cared for. This role gives purpose to what I do each day and reminds me why compassion and patience matter so much.”

Tabatha McLain,
Community Resources Department

“I like working for Blue River Services because they value their employees; they have great benefits, a good work-life balance, routine, and communication. I love what I do because I get to be a part in helping clients in our local communities.” 

Lyndsey Wilcher,
Women, Infants and Children (WIC)

“It offers a profound sense of purpose allowing me to make a tangible difference in people lives, and witness positive things happening daily. It truly is a blessing to work in a role that allows me to be passionate about the daily task, while contributing to something meaningful in the lives of our community.”

Jeannie Russell,
Women, Infants and Children (WIC)

“I truly enjoy my job because of the incredible team I have the privilege of working with every day. We collaborate exceptionally well, support one another, and create an environment built on trust, respect, and teamwork. Knowing that I’m surrounded by people who genuinely care about each other makes a meaningful difference in the workplace.   

What I find most fulfilling is working directly with individuals as they prepare for community work. Being part of their journey, watching their growth, and seeing the progress they make is incredibly rewarding. It’s inspiring to witness their confidence build and to know that I play a role in helping them move forward. That sense of shared success and positive impact is what makes my work so meaningful to me.”

Stacy Woolston,
Industrial Operations and Janitorial Director

“I have been at Blue River Services for 13 years now. What I like about working here is the opportunities to move up and do different things. I also love working with the persons served, they are great and I have made friends. I enjoy going to ball games and spending time with them. I can’t say enough about my bosses and how they treat me and everyone else. The chance to do things I never thought possible in a job! When you start working here it is just a job but somehow before you know it, it is so much more to you than you ever expected. You are just a number at most jobs, but here everyone treats you like you are important and matter. I have to say I have been blessed here!”

Johnny Collins,
Salem Industries