How long have you been at DCCH, what is your position, and what transitions have you had here (if any)?

I started at DCCH in 2006 as a part-time Therapeutic Behavior Specialist. In 2008, after graduating from NKU, I accepted a full-time position as a TBS. Over the years, I worked weekends and 2nd shift. I was a case manager and worked in Guardian Angel School. In 2016, I accepted a position in foster care, specializing in marketing and recruitment of foster families. In 2018, I temporarily left DCCH, to become a stay-at-home mom with my daughter. In 2021, I was returned to DCCH as the trainer in our foster care and adoption program.

What’s something people don’t know about you?

When I interviewed in 2006, I was only planning on working at DCCH for a year! Here I am, still involved 15 years later.

Tell us about family – what’s that look like?

My husband, David, and I have been married for 7 years. We have 3 kids under 5 years old, so life is busy.”

What do you love the most about working here?

The children! Even though I no longer work directly with the children who reside at DCCH, they have been the most important part of my years with the agency. I really feel I’ve made a difference with some of the kiddos I’ve worked with, and many have influenced me as well. I was 23 years old when I started at DCCH, with very little life experience. Seeing how strong and resilient these kids are has been so inspiring. I have grown as a person in my years here. The children, along with my supervisors and coworkers, have taught me so much about life and helped me become the person I am today.

What is your biggest challenge in this job?

Not knowing how the kids are after leaving DCCH. Goodbyes are never easy and it’s even more difficult not knowing when or if you’ll get to hear updates on these amazing children! Most of the children have a traumatic background and make such progress in the DCCH environment. It’s hard when you realize you can’t keep them safe forever.