PICS May Employee Spotlight [Get to know Stacey Abdouch, director of services]

At PICS (Partners in Community Supports), a subsidiary of Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS), much of our work is behind the scenes. Our Employee Spotlight helps you learn more about our team. This month, learn about Stacey Abdouch, director of services at PICS! 

Q. Stacey, tell us a little bit about your role at PICS.

Stacey: I have had the privilege of serving as the director of services since April 2016. I oversee the services and programs that are offered by PICS. I get to work closely with the leadership and service coordinator teams to provide amazing services to the families and individuals we support and make our work environment a spectacular place to work. I also get to work with the Payroll, HR and Billing departments to ensure all the pieces fit together optimally for the best “big picture” outcomes.

Q. Could you share with us what drew you to PICS and how your vision aligns with the organization's?

Stacey: LSS acquired CCP-Cooperating Community Programs in July 2013. I started at CCP in 2007, managing services (payroll, expenses, mileage, budgets, etc.) for about 300 individuals. Fortunately, PICS/LSS allowed me to join them following the acquisition. I continue to be extremely grateful to be able to continue doing the work I love. Most of the families I supported at CCP also chose to work with PICS. I have learned so much from the families who use these services, how they are able to benefit from this fantastic opportunity, and how much it has improved the quality of life for   waiver and grant recipients. I am motivated each day to do whatever we can to make their lives just a little less chaotic. I have been incredibly fortunate to work on a team with people who are equally inspired and motivated. I get to work with some amazing colleagues.

Q. What do you enjoy most about working at PICS? 

Stacey: My absolute favorite thing about PICS is the cooperative and collaborative culture that exists within our expanding department! I love that everyone brings something special that adds to making us as outstanding as we are. Everyone contributes 110%, is selfless regarding the team mentality and is willing to lend a hand however and whenever needed. I love that people want to work at PICS and stay with PICS. We have over 60 years of experience between our two Program Directors, two Program Managers and myself! That's pretty fantastic. I love that we are a reliable source of information and answers for those who reach out.

My other favorite part of our work is connecting with participants, their families, case managers and support planners. I'm also very proud of our collaboration with other FMS and IHS providers. We meet regularly with these organizations and external partners to share information, troubleshoot issues, and discuss best practices.

Q. The following are PICS' Shared Values:

• Trustworthy
• Compassionate
• Knowledgeable
• Collaborative
• Responsive

How have you been able to put your own personal values into action while working at PICS?

Stacey: I believe that my own values are reflected in my daily interactions with others and the decisions I make. I try to model the behaviors and characteristics I expect of everyone on our PICS team.

Q. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Stacey: I enjoy traveling — seeing and experiencing all sorts of cultures and flavors. Our kids are grown now but we still make them come over regularly to play board and card games. I enjoy cooking (and eating), walks and biking (but no hills!), being in nature and seeing wildlife.

Q. Do you have any pets?

Stacey: Dody is a golden retriever and corgi mix who is the cutest and smartest dog to ever roam the earth, of course. We rescued her in 2007, and she's still kicking, just a lot slower. She definitely isn't as active as she used to be, but she still brings us joy every day.

Q. You're happiest when...

Stacey: I'm pretty easygoing and happy doing almost anything or nothing at all. I enjoy working on projects and crossing things off my to-do list, but I also like sitting on the sofa, watching TV, and playing games on my phone. Almost all of these things are better when music is involved (and I can sing along).

Here's what some of Stacey’s colleagues have to say about her…

“Stacey is a great mentor and friend! I am truly blessed to be on her team and learn from her. She has so much knowledge and experience to share. Stacey has the biggest heart and would do anything for anyone. She also has a fun personality that keeps you smiling and laughing!”

“Stacey is committed and dedicated to PICS. Everyone goes to Stacey when they need technical skills, attention to detail, and creative ideas. We’re all so fortunate to have Stacey at PICS.”

“I’ve learned SO MUCH from Stacey, and I continue to every day. Our relationship has strengthened through collaborative projects from big to small and enduring changes throughout the 11 years we’ve both been at PICS. Her positive and fun energy makes her stand out — she is a perfect example of doing what you love.”