From a young age Sarah Iler has had a passion to help others, more specifically individuals living with disabilities. Having grown up with an uncle who lives with disabilities, Iler’s passion for giving back hits close to home.
After graduating college Iler went on to work for a non-profit organization based in Harrisonburg, VA. This organization provides residential and day support services for adults living with disabilities. Iler’s specific role started as providing direct care and then later becoming a social worker within the same agency.
In 2015 Iler made the move to Roanoke, VA. While working at a day support program for adults with intellectual disabilities, Iler was drawn to a new calling. Iler was able to witness firsthand what a positive impact the Guardianship program can have.
At Family Service of Roanoke Valley, the Guardianship program provides guardianship services to adults who are not able to be their own guardian. As a case manager Iler is in charge of maintaining contact with the individual to ensure their needs are being meant.
Iler highlights being able to meet with patients as being the favorite part of her work day. She finds the experience to be fulfilling and loves getting to know her clients.
Hanging out with friends, spending time outside when the weather is cooperating, writing, and spending time with her pets are a few things Iler likes to do in free time to unwind.
Her favorite quote comes from Viktor Frankl:
“Love is the only way to grasp another human being in the innermost core of his personality. No one can become fully aware of the very essence of another human being unless he loves him. By his love he is enabled to see the essential traits and features in the beloved person; and even more, he sees that which is potential in him, which is not yet actualized but yet ought to be actualized. Furthermore, by his love, the loving person enables the beloved person to actualize these potentialities.”
