Child Welfare Training Academy

1. If you find that you are working harder than your participants, how can you step back and allow them to step forward and have a greater stake in the workshop?

I try to make space for their ownership of the process. The goal is to co-create with them instead of having them feel solely like they are participating in my project. I can do this by asking thoughtful questions, encouraging them to find their own insights, and naming and honoring any discomfort that may be keeping them quiet or disengaged.

What is the fire in your belly?

The fire in my belly is to make a difference in the lives of everybody that I encounter each day, knowing that every encounter could have an impact both positively and negatively. In terms of at work, I would like everyone in my training to leave with at least one meaningful take away that would be beneficial in their day-to-day functioning both professionally and personally. To leave knowing that the time spent in training was a good use of their time.

What breaks your heart?

People suffering due to lack of access to resources they need to thrive. Could be due to lack of access to tangible resources or education and opportunities.

Where in your life are you already fulfilling your calling?

Chapter 3: Workshops & Your Work in the World

What is the fire in your belly? The fire in my belly is to help people and as of late to facilitate ensuring that fellow SW's are aware of their rights and responsibilities in the profession. I enjoy discussing advocacy, clinical social work treatment and assisting clients in the change process.

What breaks your heart? In regards to training when people place no effort in attending and being present as participants. Much of the material that we discuss directly impacts children and families who are suffering. If we take these things seriously we can show up in the lives of others and make a difference.

Where in your life are you already fulfilling your calling? I am on a journey to fulfill my call. I am called to help others and my help is also connected to the social work realm…

What is the fire in your belly? The fire in my belly is the deep desire to serve others. It is what fuels my purpose and gives me joy. I feel most alive when I am contributing to someone else’s growth, healing, or encouragement.

What breaks your heart? What breaks my heart is seeing people suffer under the weight of hopelessness. It hurts to watch someone believe that their situation will never change, that they are too broken, or that they don’t matter. Knowing that people carry invisible pain and yet feel they have no way forward pushes me to remind them that there is always hope.

Where in your life are you already fulfilling your calling? I am already walking in my calling through the ways I serve in my church and community. Whether through ministry, outreach, or simply showing up to encourage others. Each interaction is a chance…