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Tracy Ekstrom
Transitional Housing Coordinator
Professional Background
Tracy Ekstrom is a dedicated professional with a wealth of experience in social services and community care. With a background that spans over multiple roles in behavioral health and case management, Tracy is well-equipped to connect with and support individuals facing various challenges. Currently serving as the Transitional Housing Coordinator at the Catherine McAuley Center, Tracy demonstrates a profound commitment to fostering a compassionate environment that addresses the needs of others while also encouraging personal growth.
Throughout her impressive career, Tracy has held significant roles that contribute to her strong expertise in casework and client advocacy. With a rich history working with various health and community service organizations, she has successfully completed varied roles, including working as an Integrated Health Home Caseworker at the Abbe Center for Community Care and as a Behavioral Health Intervention Services Caseworker I at Tanager Place. Each position has allowed her to develop critical skills in managing service delivery and coordination, ensuring that the individuals and families she works with receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs.
Tracy's dedication to service is reflected in her early roles in customer service, sales, and support, where she honed her skills in communication and problem-solving. As a former Sales and Order Support Coordinator at Strategic Account Service Group, Inc. and Account Representative at Windstream Communications, Tracy cultivated a customer-centric mindset that informs her approach in her current social service roles. Her experience in these earlier positions provided her with a robust foundation in effectively managing client relationships and navigating organizational challenges.
Education and Achievements
Tracy Ekstrom's educational journey is marked by a commitment to learning and professional development. She studied Sociology at the University of Iowa, where she gained insights into the dynamics of society and human interactions that are critical for any social work professional. Following her undergraduate studies, Tracy pursued a Master's Degree in Social Work at St. Ambrose University, equipping herself with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective social intervention.
Additionally, Tracy holds an Associate of Arts in Law Enforcement from Kirkwood Community College, giving her a foundational understanding of legal frameworks and public safety that complements her social work expertise. This diverse educational background enhances her ability to navigate complex situations within her field, bringing a multidimensional perspective to her work with clients.
Notable Contributions
Throughout her career, Tracy has made significant contributions across myriad organizations, truly embodying the spirit of service. As the Transitional Housing Coordinator, she plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals and families transitioning towards stability and self-sufficiency. Tracy's ability to build rapport with clients and provide unwavering support makes her an invaluable asset to the Catherine McAuley Center.
In her previous role at the Abbe Center for Community Care, Tracy effectively coordinated care for clients, ensuring they had access to the resources they needed. This included connecting clients with mental health services, housing assistance, and other essential support systems. Her dedication to integrated health home programs showcased her commitment to holistic and comprehensive care.
As a Case Manager/Therapist at Horizons, A Family Service Alliance, Tracy utilized her therapy training to support clients in overcoming life’s challenges, employing empathy and evidence-based practices to foster personal growth. Her rich background also includes supervisory roles where she mentored peers and supported organizational development, demonstrating her leadership capabilities.
Community Engagement
Aside from her professional endeavors, Tracy is also deeply engaged in her community. She believes that community service extends beyond the workplace, and actively seeks out opportunities to volunteer and contribute whenever possible. Tracy understands the importance of collaboration and collective effort when addressing societal issues, and as such, she regularly participates in initiatives that aim to improve community wellbeing.
Tracy’s passion for service is evident in every aspect of her work and life. She is not only committed to the individuals she serves but also strives to inspire her colleagues to pursue excellence in meeting clients' needs creatively and compassionately. Her desire to grow within her profession aligns with her goal of becoming a leader in her field, continually seeking to expand her skills and knowledge.
In conclusion, Tracy Ekstrom exemplifies a remarkable blend of professionalism, dedication, and compassion. With a robust educational foundation and extensive experience in social work, she is well-positioned to make a lasting impact in the community services sector. Her unwavering commitment to the needs of others creates a ripple effect, inspiring positive change wherever she goes.