Meet Justine
Meet Justine. Justine Whitacre is a Case Manager on our Cheyenne team. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Regent University in Virginia and is experienced in both victim and child advocacy. Additionally, Justine has experience working with the Veteran’s Administration, the Developmental Disabilities Waiver, and various statewide and national non-profits geared toward aiding individuals to live independent and fulfilled lives. She believes strongly in person-centered case management services.
Q: What is Case Management to you?
J: Case management is a means to provide people with the resources and skills to empower themselves to reach whatever goals they may have.
Q: What’s your favorite family recipe? Will you share?
J: My mother’s family is from Nicaragua/Costa Rica. The national dish of both countries is Gallo Pinto, which happens to be my favorite dish, though my family changed the recipe somewhat from what you might find if you did a google search of the dish. Essentially, it’s homemade black beans, white rice, and meat mixed together and stir-fried. It’s often served with a fried egg for breakfast. You can also use the broth from the beans for black bean soup (also amazing). I’m totally willing to share the recipe, but it’s a 2-day process, and a lot of steps so if anyone is interested let me know.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do in your spare time?
J: I love researching anything and everything. I’m always looking to learn new skills, new resources, and new information.
Q: Favorite thing to do for self-care?
J: Reading, or doing puzzles (specifically Star Wars puzzles as I’m somewhat of a Star Wars geek).
Q: What advice would you give to someone struggling with the pandemic, mental health, or basic needs?
J: There are resources all throughout the community geared toward helping individuals from all walks of life, with all manner of needs. Reach out to your local offices for direction on whom to contact (i.e. DFS, Wyoming 2-1-1, WIC, Community Action, etc.); if they can’t help you directly they may know who can. Even utilize social media; I personally often provide referrals to community resources when I see folks in need on social media.
Q: What is LIV to you?
J: I see LIV as an opportunity; it is an opportunity to reach multiple demographics (veterans, seniors, the disabled, etc.) and offer resources to help empower individuals.