Marian Stuckey
It’s delightful for me to have the opportunity to shine a light this month on a dear friend and colleague, Marian Stuckey who is making a huge difference through her work with the Columbus Care Coalition, a branch within Columbus Public Health. Marian brings dozens of organizations together in partnership to offer care and provide essentials services to families in need in multiple neighborhoods throughout Columbus.
Please enjoy learning more about Marian as she answers questions about her passion for her work and service to our community!
- Susanna Warren
What is the name of your organization and what is your job title or primary role there?
I currently work for Columbus Public Health. Through CPH, I lead the Columbus CARE Coalition and the Neighborhood Social Work Programs. My job title is Section Chief of Neighborhood Social Services–the umbrella section in which both programs are located.
What originally got you started doing this work? Was it always your plan or did something happen to give you the opportunity to do this work?
I got my start in the field of Social Work while I was working at Job and Family Services. It was there I learned that I wanted to provide more wrap around services–I was in a role where I had to sanction or suspend public benefits and I knew that was not something I wanted to continue to do because I have come to learn there is so much beneath the surface–I wanted to be in a supportive role to help people move through their barriers. I didn’t initially know that I was going to become a Social Worker, actually had intentions of being a journalist. Things shifted for me after graduating college and I haven’t looked back since!
What part of your role do you enjoy the most and what do you find most challenging?
When I’m able to genuinely help other people. This can be a slight shift in their thinking patterns, advocating for themselves, or even being that source of inspiration and encouragement. My heart is uplifted to see people being able to live in ways that are authentic. I enjoy getting to see other people working in their passion as well and the glow that you can see from the individual when they are fulfilled.
We live in a world where there are so many barriers that can’t always easily be navigated. Barriers that prohibit people from thriving. Trying to manage the frustration and slowness of change at times is a challenge.
I strongly believe in making sure to utilize power with dynamics with others. Giving room to honor choices and preferences is vital to creating environments where people feel valued and heard.
Would you please describe the people you serve?
I work in a multifaceted role. I work with the community, with partner organizations with the CARE Coalition which includes over 200 local agency partners who are tuned into the work of trauma responsiveness.
The Coalition has 3 focus areas: Linden, Hilltop, and Southside of Columbus. We offer a variety of services within the community including: post homicide support, mental wellness events, and community based support groups to name some.
Who or what inspires you and how has it impacted your work?
My family is a huge source of inspiration for me and always has been. When I think of the struggles, grief, and spirit of overcoming that I’ve seen from my family I’m always encouraged and ready to push forward.
Would you share how learning Nonviolent Communication has helped you?
NVC has helped me be intentional about gaining a deeper understanding of the needs and feelings of both myself and others that I encounter.
Please share a favorite experience that describes how your work supports the people you serve.
What I have found is you never know when someone might be in a space where they need additional support. Doing the door to door work after homicides in neighborhoods–there are times we hear back from residents because they’ve held on to our material. It’s great to know that in times of need we can be a readily available source of support.
