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Amy West brings to Friendship Center a 25-year track record of public sector management, most recently as Program Administrator of an Adult Residential Facility at Devereux California, where she was recognized for her skills in problem-solving and collaboration.

Amy earned a B.A. in public sector management and an M.A. in Public Administration, both from Cal State Northridge, where she graduated with distinction.

Amy began at Devereaux as program staff, gaining valuable hands-on experience in direct care. By 2005 she became a case manager of supported living, gaining increased responsibility in program administration.

Amy began at Devereaux as program staff, gaining valuable hands-on experience in direct care. By 2005 she became a case manager of supported living, gaining increased responsibility in program administration for Devereaux’s various programs.

While Amy, like all caregivers, continued working at a demanding pace during the Covid-19 quarantine, it was also a time of career reflection.

“The pandemic did make me reevaluate my life,” she says. “I wondered if it was time for me to apply my public health skills to a new area.” After watching many of her family members struggle to care for their elderly parents she saw a great need.

“I saw first-hand how all-encompassing it was for them to navigate senior care,” she notes. “I’ve personally seen it stress out a lot of people trying to balance work, family life, and a social life while caring for a parent with dementia or other age-related illness.”

In short, Amy saw the great need for what Friendship Center provides: respite for caregivers and quality day care that provides a meaningful program of support for their loved ones. “The position aligns perfectly with both my experience in the public health sector and my desire to help families who need a break from daily care-giving.”

Amy grew up in Los Banos, California, but moved to Santa Barbara to attend UCSB. Like many, she fell in love with the city, and decided to make Santa Barbara her home. 

Outside of work, Amy enjoys gardening, baking, music, hiking, and visiting local beaches. Hendry’s is her favorite place in town!