Libertae – Understanding Diverse Needs

Becoming Culturally Aware

The event was open exclusively to Libertae staff members; approximately 55 of the healthcare professionals were in attendance.  Each of them took away a key benefit from the event.  Dara Lovett, Libertae’s Social Services Director, said, “The diversity panel discussion is good because it allows staff members to gain a better understanding of our clients’ backgrounds, which helps us to engage more fully with our clients.”

Roberta Williams had this to say about the annual discussion, “The diversity meeting helps us to know how to better approach clients.”  Sheila Dunne agreed.  She has been working at Libertae for 11 years.  She said, “This is an opportunity for staff to learn of the lifestyles and determination of individuals who are very different from people we (staff members) work, live and socialize with.”

Staff member, Kathy Dunphy, thought the annual Cultural Awareness and Diversity Panel discussion was a, “Great opportunity for Libertae staff to be exposed to various cultures and organizations that we don’t normally come in contact with.  The event gives staff awareness to why clients do what they do.  It helps us to see challenges clients face and how they deal with those challenges culturally.”  Kathy, Sheila and other staff members appreciated the diverse attributes that the panel discussion members have.

Educating a Team of Healthcare Professionals

Panelists included Jack Lewis, a professor from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Medicine Office of Diversity and Committee Outreach, Jean Ulkloss, Nathan Townsend, Andrea Alawful-Trainer, Ana Rosado, Lanfia Waritay, Catherine Getchell, Karen Brookins and Lee Supichaya.  Joi Jones spoke as a representative for Libertae alumni. 

Panel members spoke about a myriad of diverse topics including the challenges of living in two cultures.  Ana Rosado educated staff on the fact that in the Latino culture women who become addicted to drugs or/and alcohol are “Looked at like they made a bad choice.  They are made to feel like they brought shame to the family.”  She encouraged the staff to, “Educate clients and their families on the fact that drug and alcohol addiction is a disease and not simply a “bad” choice.  Ana also asked the staff not to, “Force your views on women from different cultures.  Listen to clients.”

Catherine Getchell spoke about clients with disabilities.  She began by sharing with Libertae staff that they should not assume what their clients with disabilities need.  “Ask a person what they need,” Catherine said.  She continued, “However, do not ask a client with disabilities a lot of personal questions (e.g. where were you born, how long have you had the disability) as soon as you meet them.  Build trust and keep the lines of communication open.” 

An important point Catherine shared with the staff was that, “People with disabilities often see their equipment (e.g. cane, wheelchair) as an extension of themselves.  Ask a person with disabilities if you can move their cane, etc. before you do.  For example, if you touch someone’s wheelchair, it’s like you touched the person.”

Valuable Takeaways

Alumni member, Joi Jones thanked Libertae for caring for her and coaching her toward sobriety.  She encouraged the staff to, “Listen to clients intently.  Keep options available for clients to manage their way to sobriety as not everyone approaches life the same way.”

Appetizers and side dishes were served.  They included mini egg rolls with Chinese mustard, pierogies with sautéed onions and sour cream, salad, collard greens, picked beets and red eggs, sausage with peppers and meatballs, Jambalaya and corn bread. 

Libertae was founded in 1973.  The halfway house is open to women who are 18 years of age or older who have a drug or alcohol addiction they are serious about overcoming.  The non-profit organization accepts charitable donations from individuals and public and private agencies and companies.  Readers can learn more about Libertae online at www.libertae.org.