DPSS Annual Report 24_25 FLIP v16_compressed

Adult Services Division

In-Home Supportive Services Public Authority

Public Authority Social Worker of the Year Meets People “Where They Are”

For five years, Carla Stephens has been a steady, reassuring presence for some of Riverside County’s most vulnerable res idents. As a social services practitioner with the In-Home Supportive Services Public Authority (IHSS PA), she is known for her patience, precision and quiet compassion. Stephens was recognized as the 2024/25 Social Worker of the Year for the IHSS Public Authority, a reflection of the trust she has earned from her cli ents and colleagues. The colleague who nominated Stephens, said Stephens’ dedication to helping others is evident in everything she does. “Carla is very thorough in her work and has great attention to detail when work ing with her clients,” Lorena Anguiano said. “She goes above and beyond to assist each client with their needs. She also helps her coworkers without being asked, often behind the scenes.” In her role, Stephens connects IHSS cli ents with caregivers, supports seniors and dependent adults and, at times, minor dependents. She guides families through the caregiver selection pro cess, helps them understand available resources and works to match clients with qualified providers from the Public Authority registry. She is known for stepping in wherev er she is needed, whether supporting dispatch, assisting with referral assign ments or volunteering as lead social ser vices practitioner when supervisors are out. Coworkers say she brings a calm, positive presence to her work environ ment and encourages her team to excel. Stephens said her motivation is simple. “I have always wanted to be someone who can be helpful to another person.

We all struggle. Everybody’s experienc es are different, but we all struggle at some point. I like to meet people where they are and help guide them with what they need,” Stephens said. “I like know ing I can build connections with every in dividual person I see of any age, whether it’s seniors, dependent adults or minor dependents.”

IHSS Public Authority Executive Director David Dai said Stephens is steady, com passionate and committed to doing the work the right way. “She represents the very best of the IHSS Public Authority,” Dai said. “We are grateful for the difference she makes ev ery day for Riverside County families.”

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Riverside County Department of Public Social Services | Annual Report 2024 - 2025