There’s a new face at Mission 25, a transitional living program for individuals and families in need of shelter, food, guidance and direction to live independently. Angie Stinson, RN, CMSRN, community health nurse, Parkview Whitley Hospital, is serving the facility and offering her medical counsel to participants, as needed. We asked Angie and Shawn Ellis, executive director, Mission 25, to share more about the collaboration.
What is Mission 25?
Shawn: Mission 25’s role is to serve the homeless and those at-risk of homelessness. We serve single mothers and children, single women and single men. We serve individuals with mental/behavioral health barriers, substance use disorders, developmental and/or physical disabilities and victims of domestic violence. We serve the formerly incarcerated, individuals coming from rehabilitation facilities and parents who have had their children removed from their care with the hope of reunification.
What is Parkview’s presence at Mission 25?
Shawn: Parkview supports our work through the Community Health Nurse program and through Community Health Improvement grants. The community health nurse visits Mission 25 weekly and based on client needs.
Angie: My role is to complete an initial health assessment upon admission and upon request, and to address any medical concerns. I am an advocate for the men, women and children who reside at Mission 25. I ensure their privacy, dignity, quality of care and safety. I provide direct patient care within the scope of my practice to clients at Mission 25 and educate clients about when it is appropriate to visit their physician, a walk-in clinic or the emergency room. I also educate clients on their diagnosis, such as in the case of diabetes, so they can have a better understanding and increased compliance. I believe taking ownership of your health care is of high importance. Teaching others in a way they understand increases the likelihood they will be successful in their own self-care.
Angie, how did you become involved in Mission 25?
Angie: Parkview has a culture of giving back to our community. Prior to the Community Health Nurse position, Sarah Mossberg, RN, who is now a Nurse Practitioner for Parkview FirstCare walk-in clinics, volunteered her services at Mission 25. That relationship was incredibly positive. Both Parkview Whitley and Mission 25 wanted this collaboration to continue. Around the time Sarah’s role was changing, the Parkview Whitley Community Health Nurse position was evolving and it made perfect sense for the person in that role (me) to support Mission 25.
What does a typical day at Mission 25 look like for you?
Angie: My role as a nurse varies from day to day. I meet with clients to address any medical needs or concerns, to perform an initial assessment or to follow-up after visits related to a medical concern. I provide resources related to medical concerns and education as requested to ensure understanding and compliance.
How does Parkview’s support benefit those who utilize Mission 25 services?
Shawn: Having a Parkview Community Health Nurse on site helps our staff navigate through health issues the residents might be facing. Along with health issues, the nurse helps with medication reconciliation, connecting the resident with a primary care physician, educating the resident on when it’s appropriate to use the Emergency Department vs scheduling a visit with their doctor. The nurse also helps with medication assistance and connecting with a specialist, if needed. Having a Parkview nurse on site has created a trusting environment for residents to share their medical needs and concerns.
Why is Mission 25 so important for Whitley County residents?
Shawn: Mission 25 provides a pathway of prevention, transition and restoration for the at-risk individuals and families in our area. We serve the homeless, addicted, those who are hurting mentally, emotionally and/or physically, and those who have fallen on hard times. Mission 25 transitions individuals from homelessness to self-sufficiency. Residents secure employment and/or a source of income, transportation, insurance and housing. Along with the work they put into securing what they need to manage their day-to-day, residents develop healthy habits, financial stability, coping skills and the ability to make tough decisions to ensure ongoing success.
What does the partnership between Parkview and Mission 25 mean to you?
Shawn: It means that together, we will provide the best possible care for individuals who may not feel like they deserve the best care. Together, we will serve humans with dignity, respect and love, all while providing hope. No one wakes up and says to themselves, “Today, I want to be addicted to drugs.” Or, “Today, I want to be stricken with a mental illness.” Or, “Today, I want to be homeless.” Together, Parkview and Mission 25 will see the homeless, addicted, domestic violence victims, disabled and mentally ill through a set of lenses that allow us to respect the innocence in someone who just needs help and hope. I believe that Parkview is the right partner to look through that set of lenses with.
Angie: Being a nurse is not a job; it is a way of life. It is beyond rewarding when you can make a difference in someone else’s life. I enjoy helping, inspiring and motivating others with the hope of making a positive impact. I am thankful I have the opportunity to assist others through my own lived experiences and medical background. I also enjoy working for an organization that empowers others.
You can learn more about Mission 25 by visiting their website.
