MyWhy: Ashley H.

Female PPL employee at the lake with a man wearing sunglasses

Meet the PPL Behind the Mission

Our “MyWhy” series highlights stories from our PPL employees, sharing the personal motivations behind their commitment to helping others access in-home care through self-direction. Hear directly from the individuals who bring our mission to life, and be sure to check back regularly as new stories are released.

A Conversation with Ashley H., Registration Supervisor I, Enrollment NY

Can you remember a specific moment when you realized, “This is why I do this work?”

I don’t think there is one specific moment that stands out, but when I think about the impact our efforts have on the people we serve, it is something that reminds me every day why I do this work. Every time we help a Personal Assistant reach paperwork complete, we are helping someone move one step closer to receiving the care and support they need in their daily lives. Knowing that the work my team and I do helps remove barriers, ensures compliance, and allows individuals to access the services they depend on makes even the most challenging days feel meaningful and worthwhile.

What keeps you motivated during difficult days?

My coworkers are what keep me motivated during difficult days. Having a team that is always willing to support each other, share ideas, and celebrate successes makes even the most challenging days more manageable and reminds me that I am not facing them alone. The encouragement, teamwork, and dedication I see from those around me pushes me to continue giving my best and reminds me how important it is to have a strong support system. Knowing that we can rely on each other, work through challenges together, and celebrate the positive moments along the way is what makes our team so special.

What does helping someone look like in your role?

Female PPL employee standing with a man in front of a lake

Helping someone in my role looks like providing guidance, encouragement, and support to my team so they feel confident assisting Personal Assistants through the onboarding process. It means being available to answer questions, helping remove obstacles, and making sure my team has the tools and knowledge they need to be successful. Every successful case completed represents more than just a task being finished; it means we are helping individuals move one step closer to accessing the services and support they need in their daily lives. Knowing that the work we do creates a positive impact for others is what makes this role so rewarding.

You were promoted quickly. What do you think made you ready for that opportunity?

I think my readiness came from being dependable, embracing new challenges, and always looking for ways to improve. I consistently took initiative, remained open to learning new processes, and stepped up whenever additional support was needed. By building strong relationships with my coworkers, maintaining a positive attitude, and staying focused on delivering quality work, I was able to develop the skills and confidence needed to take on a leadership role.

What kind of leader do you strive to be every day?

I strive to be the kind of leader who listens, supports, and helps others succeed every day. I believe leadership is about building trust, providing guidance, and creating an environment where team members feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and learning from challenges. I want my team to know that they have someone in their corner who will support them, encourage them, and help them find solutions when things become difficult. My goal is to lead with empathy, recognize each person’s strengths, and encourage continuous growth so everyone has the confidence and skills they need to be successful in their role. Seeing my team grow, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals is one of the most rewarding parts of being a leader.

How has PPL helped you grow, both professionally and personally?

Female PPL employee holding a corgi, both dressed in Christmas sweaters

PPL has helped me grow by challenging me to step outside of my comfort zone and take on responsibilities I never imagined having. Through those experiences, I have gained confidence in my abilities, strengthened my leadership and communication skills, and learned how to adapt to change while continuing to support those around me. The growth I’ve experienced has made me not only a stronger professional but also a more confident and resilient person in my personal life.

If someone asked why your work matters, what would you tell them?

I would tell them that our work matters because we are helping create a path for people to receive the support and services they need in their everyday lives. Every completed step, every question answered, and every barrier we help remove brings someone closer to accessing the care they depend on. Even though we may not always see the direct impact, knowing that our efforts make a difference for individuals and their families is what makes the work meaningful.

Continue reading: More MyWhy stories from PPL employees