Meet Lara Kline, a service coordinator serving the Glen Burnie area of Anne Arundel County.
After nearly three decades in education, during which Lara taught high school biology and directed a tutoring center, she sought out a career shift. “I always loved educating people,” she says, “but I wanted to work with adults and make a different kind of impact.” That passion brought her to Service Coordination, where she just celebrated her three-year anniversary in March.
“It’s the best job I’ve ever had,” she says. “I love what I do. I love my individuals, my providers, my team. It’s a job that makes me smile most days.”
Her dedication shows in the little things – like making sure every person she supports gets a birthday card. “Seeing the light in their eyes when they open that envelope – it’s wonderful,” she says.
What inspires her most? The families she works with, especially the older parents – some in their 80s and 90s – who fought for inclusion long before laws protected it. “Listening to what they did to keep their children safe, educated, and included – it blows my mind,” she shares. “It’s humbling, and it motivates me every day.”
She still draws from her educator roots, especially when it comes to relationship-building. One of her proudest accomplishments? Gaining the trust of an individual with Down syndrome who, after years of avoiding eye contact, now greets her with a hug.
She offers this advice to others in the field: “You’ve got to go with the flow. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. Be ready to adapt, listen, and meet people where they are.”
And when she’s not supporting others? You can find her behind a sewing machine. An experienced seamstress, she crafts dozens of professional ballet costumes each year, a skill that grew naturally from her daughter’s years of dance. “It’s fun,” she laughs. “A totally different creative outlet, but just as rewarding.”
We’re lucky to have Lara on our team, bringing compassion and heart to every person she serves. Here’s to the light she brings to SCI and the people we support every day!