Erin Peppin’s desire to serve wasn’t born in a classroom; it was forged in her full childhood home in Delano, Minnesota, shared with six siblings. Growing up in a large family, Erin learned early that the heart of a home is demonstrated in how we care for one another.
But her true purpose became clear during one of her family’s darkest chapters: her father’s courageous battle with cancer.
Amidst the weight of his illness, Erin watched in awe as his nurses brought more than just medicine; they brought light. Even in the hardest moments, they found ways to make him laugh.
“I knew I wanted to do the same,” Erin recalls.
The Steep Climb Toward a Dream
Erin began her nursing journey in 2015 as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Park View Health Care Center. Her passion led her to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) by 2020. Yet, her ultimate goal remained becoming a Registered Nurse (RN).
But the path to a degree is often full of obstacles.
As a first-generation college student, Erin faced the daunting financial barrier. Beyond her studies, Erin’s most significant role is being a mother to her four-year-old daughter, Kairi.
The math simply wasn’t adding up for Erin. Between the demands of school, the needs of her family and the crushing weight of tuition, Erin felt stretched to the breaking point. She was caught in a heartbreaking cycle: working extra shifts to pay for school meant losing precious time with her daughter; yet without those shifts, the dream was unaffordable.
A Lifeline for the Dedicated
Just as the burden felt too heavy, a door opened.
Park View Health Care Center Administrator Mat Bedard and Cassia Foundation Director of Grants Chris Hinnenkamp were hard at work securing a Dual Training Grant from the Minnesota Office of Higher Education. Mat describes it as “an innovative way to address workforce needs at Park View as well as multiple Cassia sites, cities and counties simultaneously.”
Chris, who partnered with Mat to write the grant, echoes this sentiment: “This is what can happen when innovative staff collaborate with the Foundation and leverage resources to make academic and professional dreams realities and fulfill our mission.”
When the Minnesota Dual Training Grant was secured, Erin finally had hope…and a lifeline. The scholarship removed the overwhelming burden, allowing her to focus on what truly matters.
“It is amazing,” says Erin. “I have more time to study and be with my family because I’m not having to pick up a bunch of extra shifts to pay for school.”
A Snapshot of Impact
Erin’s story is one just one example of the Holy Work you help us accomplish through your donations.
Her commitment underscores the human element of Cassia’s mission.
“I really like working in geriatrics, because they become like family,” says Erin, of the profound bond she forms with residents. “Their family can’t always be there every day, so we become family and get to know each other well. It’s fun to learn about their lives; so many grew up on the farm, so many fought for our country. And I love to care for our residents and give them the best quality of life.”
These opportunities only exist because of public-private partnerships, where the generosity of donors and grantors fuel innovative solutions for staff through the Cassia Foundation. Your gifts ensure that dedicated souls like Erin don’t have to choose between their education and their families, ensuring our seniors continue to receive the compassionate, expert care they deserve.
Minnesota Dual Training Grant
This program is available to Cassia employees at Park View, Lake Ridge, Lakeside Generations and Haven Homes. It recognizes that the best caregivers often have the busiest lives and offers:
- True flexibility – Schedules designed to respect family needs.
- A modern approach – A blend of online learning and in-person connection.
- Expert mentorship – Hands-on training shadowing nursing leaders within the walls of the senior living community where they work.