In Episode #113, I chat with myself about how to interview different partners from DFS social workers to biological parents, from children to therapists. Asking questions can be difficult, so this is a guide in suggested questions to ask. Remember, there is NO right way to advocate for a child. The only error is inaction. So keep those questions coming ..read more

In Episode #112, we chat with LaTysse, Jen, Jessica, and Clark as they share their experiences as a CASA Coordinator. They share some of their techniques to support their CASA Volunteers as well as some actions they take to be supportive on difficult cases. Happy listening!  ..read more

In Episode #111, we chat with Mike McHugh from Children and Families First as well as Lauren Reid from the Division of Family Services. Both discuss the Wendy's Wonderful Kids program that focuses on using a child's connections to secure adoptive or permanent resources. This is a great program that has just been brought to Delaware! Enjoy! Any questions about the program, please contact Lauren Reid at lauren.reid@delaware.gov  ..read more

In Episode #110, we interview 3 CASA volunteers who have experience working with difficult partners. These partners include biological relatives and DFS workers. The purpose of this podcast is not to "bash" anyone, simply highlight the action that the CASA Volunteers took to keep the case moving forward. Enjoy!  ..read more

In Episode #109, we interview Lezley Sexton and Danielle Gumbs who run the Transition Age Youth Program. This "TAY" program is a case-management program that connects youth ages 16 to 24 years old to community resources surrounding substance abuse and/or mental health. They are a resource to some of our kids and families.  Do you think you can make a referral? Email them at DSAMH_TAY@delaware.gov ..read more

In Episode #108, we chat with Nick Beard and Tisha Jackson who are both zealous advocates for Domestic Violence survivors. They chat with us specifically about the Community Health Project which connects survivors to community resources such as housing, employment, and mental health services. Enjoy! Information on referrals can be found here: https://dcadv.org/what-we-do/advocacy-policy-work/health/community-health-worker-collaborative-project.html ..read more

In Episode #106, I provide some information on Independent Living Services. While we have a few podcasts on IL Services, I had a guest cancellation so I had to wing it with a last-minute plan. So, let's chat about Independent Living Services! Enjoy ..read more

In Episode #105, we hear from Clark Huffman (CASA Coordinator), Christine Jones-Bey Brown (Independent Living Provider Case Manager) and Amander Lee (Independent Living Provider Worker). They explain the purpose of a STEPS meeting including when it's held, who attends, and the hopeful outcomes. Happy Listening!  ..read more

In Episode #104, we chat with Department of Justice attorney Kristina Bensley and Chief of Legal Services at the Office of the Child Advocate Kelly Ensslin. Both ladies discuss the sex offender registry with us especially as it pertains to potential parents & caregivers in our DFS cases. Enjoy! Here are a couple of links that Kristina provides to us: https://www.nsopw.gov/   https://sexoffender.dsp.delaware.gov/  ..read more

In Episode #103, we chat with Cheryl Crowe who spends her professional career in the animal abuse arena while also serving as a CASA Volunteer. In our chat today, Cheryl discusses the correlation between animal and child abuse. She shares some resources with us as well. Enjoy! https://nationallinkcoalition.org/ https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/nose-tail https://home.army.mil/lewis-mcchord/application/files/8716/7285/9577/DPFR-FAP-PetBrochure-2023-fv01042023.pdf https://dvcc.delaware.gov ..read more