Working in Child Welfare is a challenging but rewarding job.  Heather King, LSF Executive Program Director shares a little insight of what’s it’s like to be a Child Welfare Case Manager. Thank you all for your work! 

I proudly work in Child Welfare, a profession most shy away from. Not because of the overall impact to the children and families we serve, but because of the physical and emotional demands of the field. It’s hard to put other families and demands in front of your own needs. Some would argue this job is impossible.

This car seat belongs to a young mother whom is 12 months into her Child Welfare career. It transports her child, along with every child she’s responsible to carry. Today one of those children became ill while she was driving to the office.

When I arrived this morning, this car seat was outside. A sight I see often—sometimes with chairs after Support Workers assist with lice removal. Sometimes with pack in plays after bed bugs are found. Sometimes, like today, car seats coated in vomit.
At some point this afternoon the Case Manager asked me for help cleaning it. We discussed some options and she seemed satisfied. Upon closing up my office for the night, I saw her pacing back by my office with the seat. She didn’t have to say anything, her eyes said it all. She was exhausted, overwhelmed, disappointed, tired, sad……

I asked her if she needed the seat tonight/tomorrow morning for her son, she stated she could use another one if needed. I quickly picked it up and headed to my car. Case Managers do SOOO much for others, I thought cleaning it could be something I do for her.  She was overcome with emotion. As I carried it to my car, she bartered with me to take it back. I told her I’d bring it in tomorrow am clean-ready to go for the day.

And here it is. After a couple hours, it’s as good as new. I hope she’s happy!  I hope she smiles. I hope she sees the support we provide.

Some would argue this job is impossible. But is it worth it?—absolutely.

Child Welfare Case Managers—THANK YOU for all you do!

-By Heather King, LSF Executive Program Director

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