Erica Edicha's Journey: From Caring for Grandma to Serving Community

The Journey of a Dedicated Work Therapy Assistant

In the heart of Minnesota, Erica Edicha's life of dedication began with a family announcement that would shape her future. Her mother decided to bring Edicha’s grandmother, suffering from dementia, into their home, a move that would ignite Edicha’s passion for care.

"We didn’t know much about the state my grandmother was in," Edicha remembers, "but my mother said, ‘She’s coming to live with us, and you better treat her right, or we’re going to have a problem.’" This familial duty evolved into a profound commitment to service, guiding Edicha into a meaningful career.

Now, as a work therapy assistant with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Edicha leads a team dedicated to enhancing the vocational skills and work behaviors of individuals with disabilities. Her unwavering passion is a source of inspiration for her colleagues. "What I have learned from Erica is that above all else, the most important quality is consistent, unwavering passion," says Elizabeth Pouliot, a colleague. "She will not stop fighting to make a meaningful impact on each individual we support."

Edicha's dedication has earned her the Never Quit Service Award from AFSCME Local 607 (Council 5). This accolade honors public service workers who significantly improve their communities.

Among the individuals Edicha works with are those affected by Prader-Willi syndrome, a rare genetic disorder marked by an insatiable appetite and various physical, mental, and behavioral challenges. Despite these obstacles, Edicha and her team help clients gain control over their impulses and succeed in the workplace.

Edicha expresses her love for her job, stating, "I love my job. I don’t ever want to call off work. It’s a joy. I’m always getting some type of laugh at work with my clients. Every client is funny, every client is different."

As a mother of three, Edicha finds strength in her family and work environment, which includes supportive colleagues and a boss who maintains an open-door policy. “They’re a great support system,” she says. “Even on tough days I can always say, ‘It will get better.’”