By Cindy Adams
The question that constantly reverberates in Sojourna Jacobs’ mind is "What can I do?" It’s the lens through which she sees, hears, and feels and the platform from which she acts. It is her constant. Sojourna is an enCircle Direct Support Professional in West Virginia. While she has been with the agency just over a year, Sojourna is a life-long caregiver.
"I have always wanted to take care of people when I see a need," Sojourna said.
And she has done so, even at the most difficult of times. Her grandfather, grandmother, mother, mother-in-law, and best friend died with Sojourna by their side. She has also provided a foster home for nearly 100 children who needed help over the years. Now, she is the one who brings smiles to the faces of five residents at enCircle’s Falling Water Group Home.
Supporting others has defined her life.
Sojourna wanted to open a Group Home when she lived in New York but instead relocated to Maryland to take care of her dad. After his passing, she connected with Stonebrook, now enCircle, and moved to West Virginia.
"They need me here," she said with a smile. "When I am away and return, they are so excited to have me back. When I have to leave, they ask how long I’ll be gone. I have family, but these folks are my family, too."
Believe it or not, Sojourna never wanted children. Yet, she has two biological children, adopted five others, and fostered many, many more.
Life has a way of surprising us. What is not a surprise, however, is Sojourna’s ability to motivate and support those around her. At the Group Homes, she can get even the most reluctant walking and exercising. She can make her way through a closed door when she senses sadness. She just has a way.
"Like my children, I give our program participants my full attention. I know them," Sojourna said. "I understand where they are coming from, and I’m there for them. And they know that."
What is apparent is that she genuinely cares. If she discovers a need, she immediately asks herself, "What can I do?" and she’ll absolutely find a way to do it!
"You have to find that gift within yourself," Sojourna said. "It’s the gift of love."
