Dedicating over a decade to human services, Laura M. Starsoneck has established a successful career focusing on addiction recovery and support for women and children. She currently serves as the assistant director of the Center for Women and Children at Helping Up Mission Inc. in Baltimore, where she oversees day-to-day operations and supports various managers within the organization. Helping Up Mission is a nonprofit organization providing comprehensive recovery programs for men and women facing homelessness, poverty, and addiction, offering housing, counseling, and spiritual guidance to help individuals rebuild their lives. In her role, she collaborates with the senior director on grant reporting and assists women who have completed the one-year program with housing plans. Recognized for her contributions, she was named one of Baltimore City’s emerging leaders within two years of joining Helping Up Mission.
Prior to her current role, Ms. Starsoneck served as program administrator for permanent housing programs at St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore from 2020 to 2021, where she managed housing initiatives to provide stable living conditions for those in need. From 2017 to 2020, she worked as program director, developing and implementing programs to support vulnerable populations. Her journey with St. Vincent de Paul began in 2012 as a program assistant, progressing to roles as volunteer coordinator and assistant director, reflecting her commitment and growth within the organization. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a Catholic organization dedicated to assisting those in need through food, clothing, shelter, medical care, and volunteer opportunities.
Ms. Starsoneck began her career as a child life specialist at Erlanger Health System from 2006 to 2008. Erlanger Health System is a leading nonprofit academic medical center providing comprehensive healthcare services, including specialized care, education, and research, to the communities it serves. This early experience laid the foundation for her passion for helping others, particularly children and families navigating difficult challenges. Her career path showcases a deep dedication to serving and empowering individuals in need.
Reflecting on her path, Ms. Starsoneck has learned that patience is vital when working with individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and poverty. These deeply emotional and challenging circumstances require resilience and empathy. Over time, she has mastered balancing directness with compassion, effectively communicating and motivating others. Her approach emphasizes addressing tough issues firmly yet with a loving and understanding demeanor. She advises aspiring professionals to cultivate patience and practice clear, compassionate communication as essential tools for building trust and driving meaningful change.
Ms. Starsoneck considers her most notable achievement the publication of her book, “Single-Handedly Blessed,” in July 2023. The book chronicles her journey as a single woman navigating the adoption process and reflects her experiences at Helping Up Mission, where she encountered women overcoming significant challenges to rebuild their lives. Inspired by their resilience, she wrote the book to encourage and uplift others facing similar struggles.
Ms. Starsoneck believes what sets her apart is her willingness to take bold steps guided by faith and purpose. Her decision to adopt a child as a single woman, and her ongoing journey to adopt a second, exemplify her courage and commitment to embracing challenges. She attributes her success to her ability to balance a demanding career with single parenthood. Additionally, she credits the support she receives from a reliable network to help her manage multiple responsibilities with focus and efficiency.
Looking ahead, Ms. Starsoneck is considering pursuing a degree in social work to become a licensed social worker, which would expand her career opportunities and allow her to teach and provide training beyond Helping Up Mission. In her personal life, Ms. Starsoneck enjoys running marathons, traveling, working out, and spending quality time with her daughter. She is also working on her second book, a children’s story about adoption.