Workforce Development in Action
July 7, 2026
From DSP to LPN, Neonoh’s Journey Comes Full Circle
Workforce development is about more than filling positions. It’s about investing in people, supporting career growth, and creating opportunities for employees to build meaningful careers while strengthening the care we provide. At Homeward Bound, workforce development is one of the many ways we invest in our mission, and Neonoh’s journey is a perfect example of what’s possible.
Discovering a New Career Path
When Neonoh first joined Homeward Bound as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), she wasn’t planning to become a nurse. In fact, she was pursuing a degree in accounting after being encouraged by a friend to apply for a position at Homeward Bound.
She thought she was simply trying something new.
Instead, she found her calling.
Working alongside individuals with disabilities and Homeward Bound’s nursing team, Neonoh witnessed the compassion, professionalism, and dedication that nurses brought to their work every day. Those experiences inspired her to rethink her future.
“I didn’t just want to become a nurse,” Neonoh shared. “I wanted to become a nurse at Homeward Bound.”
Workforce Development Creates Opportunities
Inspired by the people around her, Neonoh made the courageous decision to change career paths. She stepped away from Homeward Bound to return to school and pursue her nursing degree, holding onto the dream of one day returning to the organization that first inspired her.
This summer, that dream became a reality.
We are proud to welcome Neonoh back to Homeward Bound as a Float Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), completing an incredible full-circle journey from Direct Support Professional to nurse.
Today, Neonoh provides the same compassionate care that once inspired her. She’s already making a meaningful impact by supporting individuals across our homes, collaborating with fellow nurses, and even referring new employees to join the Homeward Bound team.
Her story reflects something we believe deeply at Homeward Bound: growth doesn’t have limits.
Whether an employee is exploring a new career path, continuing their education, developing leadership skills, or discovering a passion they never expected, investing in people strengthens our entire organization.
Investing in the Future of Disability Services
Homeward Bound’s commitment to workforce development continues to grow through employee scholarships, continuing education, leadership development, mentorship, and professional growth opportunities.
We’re grateful for the generous support of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, whose workforce development investment is helping strengthen our team and expand opportunities for employees to build meaningful careers.
When our employees grow, everyone benefits. Our workforce becomes stronger, our organization becomes more resilient, and the people we support receive exceptional, person-centered care from dedicated professionals who are committed to our mission.
Looking Ahead
Looking back, Neonoh says she never imagined where one opportunity would lead.
Today, she’s exactly where she hoped she would be.
Her advice for anyone considering their own journey is simple:
“Don’t be limited. You can do anything.”
We’re incredibly proud of everything Neonoh has accomplished and honored to welcome her back to the Homeward Bound family. Her story reminds us that workforce development isn’t just about careers—it’s about investing in people, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities that change lives.
Learn More
Interested in joining a team that believes in professional growth and meaningful careers?
- Explore career opportunities at https://hbimn.org/careers/
- Learn more about Homeward Bound’s mission at https://hbimn.org/about/
- Discover how you can support our work at https://hbimn.org/donate/monetary/
Written by Dillanger D., Human Resources Manager
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