May 9, 2022
Celebrating EveryStep Nurses: Meet Marcia Allen
National Nurses Week, first observed in 1994, honors the contributions and sacrifices of the medical professionals who keep us healthy. It is celebrated between May 6, National Nurses Day, and May 12, the birthdate of celebrated nurse Florence Nightingale.
EveryStep is fortunate to have dedicated and talented nurses who work with expectant and new mothers and their children, individuals in the care of EveryStep Hospice, and seniors and others that receive home care services through EveryStep.
As an EveryStep nurse, Marcia Allen has filled a variety of needs, working with EveryStep’s youngest and oldest clients. Her journey with EveryStep began in 2008 on an as-needed basis for flu clinics. Things grew from there.
“Within a couple of years, I accepted a part-time position as a childcare nurse consultant, then I became a home visitor for the Nurse Family Partnership program for 10 years,” says Marcia. “I wanted to work for EveryStep because I really believe in the mission. Empowering individuals and supporting families will definitely strengthen our communities.”
A graduate of Storm Lake High School with a nursing degree from Creighton University, Marcia dedicated 42 years of her life to the call of nursing. In 2019, Marcia retired from EveryStep after 11 years.
But she couldn’t stay away.
Marcia’s dedication to EveryStep continues as needed for the Community Health and Wellness programs. “I love working in the community promoting health and wellness through flu clinics, senior center blood pressure clinics and biometric wellness screenings,” says Marcia. “I am inspired daily by the dedication, care and sacrifice by former co-workers as they provide services to our vulnerable populations. Preventative care and education are key to wellness and EveryStep does a terrific job promoting this.”
Marcia’s work with seniors is especially meaningful. She enjoys the connections and relationships she develops with clients and says events like blood pressure clinics go far beyond measuring numbers. “It’s following up on their physical, mental and emotional health. The pandemic isolated our elderly. Many of them have not continued with their routine healthcare, have felt depressed or aren’t aware of community resources that can provide assistance. I hope I can be a little encouragement in their day, showing that I am there to listen and care for their concerns.”
On the other end of the age spectrum, Marcia makes time to volunteer with EveryStep’s Nurse Family Partnership program. “My passion is teaching new mothers how to be great moms to their children. I look forward to bumping into many of my old workmates!”
The best part of working with EveryStep? “When someone says, ‘thanks for coming today’ it makes my day.”
Though Marcia loves working with EveryStep, she also loves retirement and the opportunity to spend more time with her family and grandkids. “My husband and I enjoy traveling, spending time at the lake and our newest hobby, pickle ball!”
EveryStep currently has several nursing opportunities. If you are interested in becoming a hospice or home care RN with EveryStep, please reach out to EveryStep HR recruiter Becky Elming and ask about our generous sign-on bonus! You can also view current openings on our website at https://www.everystep.org/careers.
If you or someone you know is struggling to find the support they need, please contact EveryStep at 515-558-9946 or complete the commitment-free, confidential “Find Care” form on EveryStep’s website at www.everystep.org/find-care. EveryStep staff will follow up with a phone call to answer your questions and provide assistance.