St. Anthony Foundation Team Member and Former Guest Lauren Urbina-Blanco Promoted to Case Manager Following Completion of Learn to Earn Program in Record Time

March 14, 2023

Throughout March, St. Anthony Foundation is celebrating National Women’s History Month by highlighting the vital role of women who share their time and talent with the foundation

“I was drawn to work at St. Anthony Foundation because I was born and raised in the Tenderloin neighborhood,” said Lauren Urbina-Blanco, a soft-spoken, earnest young woman who was recently promoted from Guests Services to Case Manager in the Resource Center.

Lauren quickly completed St. Anthony’s Learn to Earn, a professional development program that enables team members to advance their careers and salaries. In addition to Lauren, nearly fifty team members participated in this program last year.

“When I was young, my mom was a guest of the St. Anthony’s Free Clothing Program (FCP) and I attended nearby De Marillac Academy,” said Lauren. Later, her family moved to the Mission neighborhood, but Lauren returned to St. Anthony’s to volunteer to serve food in the Dining Room. “I always seemed to be drawn back to St. Anthony’s.”

While pursuing her college degree in social services, she applied for a job with St. Anthony’s and started working at in Guest Services, where she was often guests’ first introduction to the foundation, helping them with immediate needs like shoes, a warm coat, and a nourishing meal. “I loved the work and knew I wanted to continue my career at St. Anthony’s long-term,” said Lauren. “I let my manager know I was interested in working as a case manager so when a position opened, I applied and got the job!”

I have only been in this new role for a few weeks, so I’ve been shadowing my teammates & I’m applying what I’m learning in school in a hands-on way with each guest,” said Lauren.  “I enjoy working more closely with guests over a period of time to help them navigate on their paths to stability.” Lauren helps guests with everything from rental assistance and DMV vouchers, to making appointments with the Free Clothing Program to shop for shoes and clothing.

“It makes me feel really grateful to be of service. Working at St. Anthony’s allows me to be that helping hand to give our guests hope.”

Lauren Urbina-Blanco

At St. Anthony’s, we are always looking for caring, mission-driven, and skilled people to participate in this work. We offer excellent employee benefits and a supportive work environment.

In 1950 in response to the needs of those experiencing homelessness in the Tenderloin, St. Anthony’s was founded by Franciscan Friars, a Catholic order of men inspired by St. Francis of Assisi and committed to “love thy neighbor.” The worldwide Franciscan movement is committed to the poor and vulnerable, to caring for creation, and to seeing the good in every individual. We welcome all—from any religion or worldview—who wish to join us in making the world a more compassionate and just place. Explore job opportunities at St. Anthony’s here.