MyWhy: Stacey R.

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.

My “why” for this work is deeply personal. 

Long before I worked in this field professionally, I experienced it firsthand. I was a caregiver for my family. When my stepdaughter, mother, and grandparents needed support, we navigated traditional services together, and I saw how overwhelming the healthcare system could feel for families simply trying to do right by the people they love. 

But I also saw something powerful. I saw how much of a difference it makes when people have choice, when they have a voice and the ability to make decisions about their own care and their own lives. 

Today, that perspective continues in an even more personal way. As a parent, I now advocate for my own child who requires ongoing medical care and appointments. Anyone who has had to navigate the healthcare system for someone they love knows how complex and emotional that journey can be. The coordination, the advocacy, and the constant focus on making sure your child gets the care and support they need become part of your everyday life. 

Those experiences are what ground my passion for this work. They remind me that when families are empowered, when they have the right support and the ability to direct their care, everything changes. 

This month marks 19 years with PPL. What first drew me here all those years ago was the mission. When I learned about the work PPL was doing to support self-direction and empower individuals and families, I immediately recognized the impact it could have because I had already lived it myself.  

I started as a temporary employee, not knowing then that it would turn into a 19-year journey. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow with the organization, taking on many different roles and learning every aspect of the work we do. Each role deepened my understanding of the impact we make and strengthened my commitment to the mission. 

Throughout that journey, one thing has remained constant: the people. 

I’m surrounded by incredible colleagues who share this same passion. People who lead with heart, who have seen firsthand the difference our work makes, and who are driven by a genuine love for what we do. We celebrate each other’s wins, support one another through challenges, and stay grounded in the knowledge that the impact we make starts close to home and ripples outward.  

Every day at PPL reminds me that this work is more than a job, it’s a mission. We operate at the intersection of care, independence, and dignity. The services we support help parents become caregivers, allow people to age in place, and enable neighbors to support neighbors within a system built on choice, voice, and independence. 

Together, we’re not just building programs. 

We’re building trust. 

We’re building community.
 

And we’re building freedom. 

After 19 years, I can truly say that at PPL I don’t just contribute to change, I’m a part of it. And I’m incredibly proud to walk this path alongside others who care just as deeply about making a difference as I do.