Influential Woman · Social Services

Katherine Wormley

Senior Program Specialist, Riverside County Housing & Workforce Solutions

Redlands, CA

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree BA in Sociology Degree California State University of Northridge Degree Master's in Social Work Degree USC

Her Story

About Katherine

I started my career as a preschool teacher because I always knew I wanted to serve others in some capacity, and I gravitated to early childhood education and teaching. After getting my BA in sociology, I realized I wanted to branch out and got into homeless services for veterans housing as a case manager for homeless veterans. I went through a divorce and became a single mom at that time, and I realized the salary on a BA wasn't going to cut it - I needed to push myself a little bit more just to provide for me and my daughter. I ended up applying to USC and got in, earning my master's in social work, which started the trajectory to participate and work in a profession that helps homeless populations find housing and stability. I transferred to medical social work in 2018, then came back to providing services for the homeless population in 2024. Now I work on a macro level, collaborating with all of our entities including county entities, city entities, nonprofits, profits, our federal and state systems, and the medical system. We're all integrated into making sure the homeless population has housing opportunities. I love the work I do because it's very interesting to see everything from a broader perspective, the workings our society, and I get to dabble a little bit into the political arena, which is never a dull moment.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Katherine

01What do you attribute your success to?

I give all praise to God, because He has taken me from divorced, living with my mother-in-law, not knowing how to pay bills or not having enough to pay bills, stressed out about all the ins and outs of taking care of a kid while trying to be present, working, and going to school. But He made ways and definitely brought me out of a lot of bad and has blessed me with a lot of good. I'm literally sitting in my own office, working for the county, written three books, started a YouTube - I'm blown away by how much I've done in a short period of time and the desire to keep growing and to keep helping people. I couldn't have done that without the Lord. If I had to do this on my own, I wouldn't be here right now. When I think about everything, there's no way - I can't attest to my own resources, I always have to give praise to God because He was able to do that.

02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Everything and all things start with Jesus. If you have him you can get through anything and accomplish things far past your own expectations. It's important to stay humble and persevere in your healing journey. You cannot pour from an empty cup, but you can pour from a cup full of love, gratitude, peace, joy, and a will to keep running your race even when it gets tough. When you find your purpose, press in, and give it everything you have. It will be worth it.

03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

I always treat others the way I want to be treated, especially for those less fortunate than I am. It's important to lead by example, to lead with integrity and honor the position you're given in other peoples lives. It is important to acknowledge those who need help, who need encouragement and hope to keep going. The value of seeing those entrusted to you live their best lives is everything.

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