Brianne Gardner
Brianne Gardner is a dedicated Home Supervisor at Wedgwood Christian Services in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with nearly a decade of experience in foster care and youth services. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Ferris State University, driven by a passion for supporting children in foster care and community programs. Throughout her career, Brianne has worked with youth who have experienced abuse, neglect, substance use, and human trafficking, providing both daily care and therapeutic support in residential settings.
Beginning as a youth treatment specialist, Brianne gained hands-on experience working directly with children, planning activities, engaging with families, and participating in court processes. She later progressed into supervisory roles, focusing on staff development, training new team members, and promoting trauma-informed care practices. Her expertise in program management and her commitment to fostering a structured, supportive environment have enabled her to guide both staff and youth toward success.
In her current role as Home Supervisor, Brianne oversees all operational and programmatic aspects of a nonprofit pilot residential program. She manages staff scheduling and training, program planning for youth, budgeting, and coordination with cross-departmental partners including nursing, finance, and case management. She prioritizes trauma-informed care, life skills development for residents, and mentorship for her staff, ensuring that each child in her program receives the guidance, stability, and support they need to thrive.
• Ferris State University - BS
• Excellence Award
What do you attribute your success to?
I credit my success to the mentors who have invested their time and guidance in me, and to the hands-on experience I’ve had working with our kids. Seeing the impact of our work has helped me grow both professionally and personally. The knowledge and resources I’ve received allow me to give back, creating a cycle of support and growth for the young people we serve.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice that I've received is to always stay open-minded, and to understand that there's always going to be changes. But with changes comes growth, and being okay with that is essential. It's about embracing change rather than resisting it, because that's where the real growth happens in your career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values I prioritize in both my work and personal life center on growth, creativity, and connection. I value staying active and taking care of myself through exercise, walking, and fitness. Lifelong learning is important to me, whether through reading or exploring new skills—like DIY projects, which give me a creative outlet. Spending quality time with family and friends is essential, and I cherish travel and road trips as ways to recharge and gain new experiences.