A Heart for Care: Renee Gritz’s Journey to Nursing Leadership
May 9, 2025
Renee Gritz, RN, Assistant Director of Nursing
Early Career and Diverse Leadership Experience
From a young age, I dreamed of becoming a secretary. During high school, I followed that path by enrolling in secretarial courses and eventually earned an Executive Secretarial degree from Winona State University.
My professional journey began in a finance company at the IDS Center in Minneapolis. After starting a family, I returned to my hometown of Pine City, Minnesota, where I stepped into leadership roles across various industries. I managed a grocery store deli, Pizza Hut, and Coca-Cola operations. Later, I joined State Farm Insurance, progressing from customer service to sales and eventually becoming an insurance agent with MSI Insurance.
The Turning Point: A Calling to Nursing
My transition into a nursing career was deeply inspired by my brother, a former U.S. Marine who found his calling as a nurse. His passion for caregiving moved me and sparked a desire to make a more personal and meaningful impact in the lives of others.
Starting in Healthcare: From CNA to RN
I began my healthcare journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in a long-term care facility on a dementia unit. Providing care to individuals unable to care for themselves was incredibly rewarding. Motivated to grow, I became a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and continued working with elderly patients. Later, I returned to college and earned my Registered Nurse (RN) license, taking on more supervisory responsibilities.
Embracing Specialized Care
Throughout my nursing career, I’ve worked in various healthcare environments. At the Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center, I cared for individuals facing both mental health and addiction challenges. In home health care, I supported clients living with quadriplegia, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders.
I found that home-based care aligns closely with both my professional strengths and personal values.
A Perfect Fit: RN Supervisor at Homeward Bound, Inc.
When I had the opportunity to join Homeward Bound, Inc. as an RN Supervisor, I knew I had found the right place. In this role, I oversee nurses in residential care settings and focus on building strong, trusting relationships with clients.
One particularly joyful experience involves a client who enjoys imaginative play with her stuffed animals. Together, we create funny, lighthearted stories—like the animals nibbling at her toes or giving her kisses. These special moments bring us both joy and have become a treasured part of my work.
Why I Love What I Do
What I find most fulfilling about my role is being part of a team that truly values client-centered care. Every day brings opportunities to enrich the lives of others through compassion, connection, and creativity.
I carry with me the words of Matthew 25:40:
“As much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
