At times, Sue Probert, a licensed social worker, actually runs to meet Hannan Center client needs. Joining the social services team a little more than a year ago, she hasn’t stopped since.
“I oversee five different support group meetings in locations across the city and one group that meets via Zoom,” Sue explained. “Each week, I bring a snack and a discussion topic important to older adults. We’ve talked about avoiding scams, the benefits of journaling, even how to love yourself.”
In all, Sue estimates she sees up to 60 Hannan Center clients every month either in group settings or one-on-one.
With more than two decades of social work experience, she understands the types of challenges her clients encounter and the ins and outs of finding solutions.
“Housing is our single biggest request for assistance. Clients come to us after unsuccessful attempts to access resources through government agencies. I’ve learned that people, especially with disabilities, often need help navigating the initial phone call to a potential resource,” Sue said.
Furniture is another top need among Hannan Center clients. And property tax assistance, too. With Sue’s passion and tenacity, it nearly always pays off for clients as she taps into programs aiding older adults in Detroit and throughout southeast Michigan.
“The best part of my job is seeing results and the look on our clients’ faces when we come through for them. After furnishing a woman’s apartment, she sent me a photo and seemed ready to cry. I was just thrilled to actually help someone.
“Hannan Center’s mission is to support senior citizens living in the setting of their choice and staying in their homes. And with the many activities we provide here, we do just that. I can’t think of a single place combining a senior center, art gallery, and creative aging programs. That makes us unique.”
When she’s not rushing to support Hannan Center clients, you’ll find Sue nurturing her penchant for bluegrass music, carefully observing Michigan’s abundance of native plants, a skill she learned from her father, or simply enjoying her two children. It is how she stays grounded.
“My work is like standing in a stream, the need just goes on and on,” Sue observed. “But for the 20 years I’ve been a social worker, I’ve managed to find balance and great satisfaction in what I do.”
