Social Work Month Spotlight - Britta Ruff

Date: Mar, 16 2021


When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in Social Work?

I always knew I wanted to be in the helping professional, whether it was social work, nursing or therapy. I realized I wanted to be a social worker when I worked at an assisted living in college and discovered the importance of helping older adults with their physical needs but also how important it was for their psycho social needs to be met too.

What helped you determine that this was the career path for you?

In college I went back and forth between psychology and social work. I think psychology is a great field but I knew social work was more for me when I heard the quote “Psychology-asks the person whether they believe the glass is half full or half empty, Social Work- Asks a person if they know the glass is refillable and who or what stops them from accessing the tap”.

Why did you choose to work in Hospice?

I was drawn to work in hospice because of the holistic and person centered approach. Caring for someone at the end of life is a privilege. I am thankful for the life lessons I have learned from our patients through their reflections and life experiences.

Why did you choose to work for Adoray?

I wanted to serve the community I lived in. Shortly after starting at Adoray I could see how passionate and dedicated the team was to carry out the mission on a daily bases. I am proud to work alongside such compassionate and knowledgeable team members!

What is the most rewarding part about being in this field?

Social work is filled with problem solving tasks. It is rewarding when things just seem to fall into place through effort and good communication. 

What is the most challenging part about this career?

Social work is a profession that lives in the grey. Not every situation has a clear cut solution. Yet its our jobs to help patients and their families access the information and empower them to make the best decision that feels right to them.

What is a lesson you have learned throughout your career in Social Work that you would like to share with others?

Be present. Whether you’re a social worker or in any type of helping field. Life gets crazy and we get pulled in so many different directions. I have learned when I take a deep breath, refocus and be mindful of the bigger picture, not just the tasks at hand, I am more empathetic and effective to those we serve.

Britta Ruff - Social Work Month Spotlight




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