Making a Difference

Abner Garcia, Assessment Case Manager

“At the end of the day, when you feel like you’ve done something for somebody, that makes a difference.” As an Assessment Case Manager for the last three years with GECAC’s Area Agency on Aging, Abner Garcia has seen the services of GECAC make a difference on a regular basis.

Abner first entered social service when he took a job to work with at risk youth while he was a pastor. He found that the social service sector allowed him to match his ministry with a paying job. He knew he wanted to continue working someplace in social service and someplace where he felt he was making a difference. Abner also has a natural affinity for working with older people so the position in AAA is a perfect match.

Many consumers stick in Abner’s mind. “You get as close as they want you to be. Some people are straight-out assessments. They want services. That‘s it. Some people make a link. People stay in your mind. They are so friendly. They are going through some of the worst stuff, yet they have a positive attitude.”

Although he doesn’t often see the other (caseworker’s) side, he states that he still often knows what’s going on and knows the Community Action Promise is being fulfilled. “Senior Citizens need help but many want to stay at home. They don’t want to give up control of their lives. We help them stay at home and maintain their independence. That fulfills the promise. Helping make their lives better.”