“I like to see a victim/survivor thrive within the environment the residential staff work so diligently in maintaining. Seeing someone come in with nothing and leave with a job, permanent housing, a life changing experience and a network of resources is truly rewarding.”
It would be hard to imagine any situation in which Stephen Holdren did not stand out. Not only does he possess a calm demeanor, dry wit, and keen insight but his passion and dedication to FSC’s services and clients (as well as his fellow team members) are why he is our staff spotlight for the fall.
A Montgomery native, Stephen graduated Troy University with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and a minor in Criminal Justice and is currently working on his Master of Science in Management at Faulkner University. Prior to joining FSC, he was the Unit Director at Sequel Youth and Family Services, a residential treatment facility for adolescent young women. There, he worked tirelessly to help patients recognize their potential, define goals, and reorganize their decision-making processes in preparation for a successful journey into adulthood.
In March of 2018, Stephen joined the FSC team as the Residential Services Supervisor. The process by which clients move through FSC’s multiple residential services programs can be confusing. One of Stephen’s many challenges as supervisor was to restructure the service delivery model for FSC’s emergency shelter and transitional housing programs to serve clients more efficiently. His innovations have led to expanded client services and improved outcomes while also improving staff development. Stephen launched FSC’s successful Rapid Rehousing program, providing clients in need with greater options for permanent housing upon transition from shelter.
As a result of his successes in program reorganization, team building, and client first philosophy, Stephen was promoted to the Director of Residential Programs. He now serves on FSC’s senior management team, providing direction and input on programs and services across the organization. In his new role, Stephen helped to develop and launch a new residential program for victims of human trafficking in the summer of 2020. He manages two emergency shelters, two transitional housing facilities, and multiple programs all designed to provide hope and healing for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
His passion for service goes far beyond his work with FSC. An energetic leader, Stephen is always ready to meet the next challenge head on. Stephen continues to model FSC’s mission of hope and healing, while actively working towards eliminating family violence in our communities.
