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Each month, North Dakota Health and Human Services spotlights a 1915(i) provider to celebrate their contributions and innovative approaches to person-centered care. By sharing their stories, we aim to inspire collaboration, foster continuous improvement and strengthen our community's commitment to delivering high-quality services.
This month, we highlight Maria Hanson with A New Path.
I originally came from Cebu, Philippines. I have been in the U.S. since 2019 and currently reside in West Fargo.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time or what do you do to relax?
In my free time, I usually clean the house, make sure everything is orderly and when I'm done with that, I watch TV with coffee, read my Bible and sometimes be on my phone.
- How long have you been a care coordinator (or doing this kind of work)?
I started as a care coordinator this past October, so I’m still fairly new to the role, but I’ve been learning quickly and becoming familiar with the 1915(i) program and its requirements. Prior to this, I had experience working with underserved individuals in the Philippines, including people in recovery, which helped prepare me for this work and strengthened my passion for supporting others.
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Could you share what inspired you to become a 1915(i) provider?
I’ve always had a heart for helping people. I came from a developing country where getting support or services can be very difficult, so when I learned about 1915(i) and other state-funded programs, I was honestly amazed that these kinds of resources exist for individuals who truly need help, especially those working to rebuild their lives.
My sister-in-law works in this field, and through her I became interested and motivated to learn more about the program. Over time, I realized this was a meaningful way for me to give back to the community and to a country that has given me and my family many opportunities. Being able to support others and help them move forward has been very rewarding, and I’m grateful to be part of this work.
- How do you tailor your services to meet the unique needs of each member?
I also have a family member who struggles with addiction, and that experience has taught me a lot. I learned that sometimes the most important thing you can do is listen and simply be present. It helped me become more compassionate and patient, and I carry that into my work every day.
I want each member to feel supported and understood, and to know that I am genuinely there for them. Building trust is very important to me, and I do my best to create a safe and comfortable space where they feel heard and encouraged as they work toward their goals.
Starting Feb. 18, the 1915(i) Office Hours evolved into the 1915(i) Teaching Corner.
The 1915(i) Teaching Corner will be held the third Wednesday of each month.
At these sessions 1915(i) administrators will review a specific training component of the 1915(i) program. The goal is to do a deep dive into a part of 1915(i) to help train the providers on it, and then they can take this training into their agencies and train their own staff.
The Teams meeting invite is located on the 1915(i) Provider Trainings & Information Sessions webpage.
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