Caring Career Spotlight: Clara, NHTD Waiver Program Specialist

When Clara joined Elara Caring as a home health aide in 2013, she knew she wanted a career where she could help others. More than a decade later, that same passion helped her build a rewarding career supporting patients and families in a new way.

After spending years providing hands-on care in patients’ homes, Clara was promoted to care team supervisor in 2023. Today, she serves as an NHTD and TBI waiver program specialist, helping individuals access home and community-based services so they can continue living safely and independently instead of in a nursing facility.

The NHTD (Nursing Home Transition and Diversion) and TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) waiver programs help eligible New Yorkers receive personalized care and support in their own homes and communities. Clara works closely with patients and families to guide them through the process, answer questions and make sure they receive the services they need.

In one instance, Clara worked closely with a family throughout the NHTD waiver application process, helping them understand each step and providing guidance from start to finish. When everything was complete, the family shared just how much her support meant to them.

“They complimented me for my assistance and said they couldn’t express their gratitude in words,” Clara recalled. “That moment allowed me to see the impact of my work and the value in it.”

Clara said the people she works alongside have also played a major role in her career satisfaction. She appreciates the teamwork, trust and encouragement she has found throughout her time at Elara Caring.

“I love working at Elara because of the highly collaborative work environment and the culture of never leaving others behind,” she said. “The trust of my manager and the flexibility allowed in my schedule are what stand out to me.”

As Clara’s career has grown, so has her ability to help others. What began as providing one-on-one care has evolved into helping families navigate life-changing programs with confidence and compassion.