For our dedicated team of caseworkers, establishing trust with youth who are in the child welfare is essential for achieving positive outcomes. Youth who are put into the child welfare system have endured significant trauma and loss and as a result have difficulty regulating behaviors and managing emotions. Each day our compassionate caseworkers work tirelessly to address the needs and behaviors of youth in these challenging circumstances. Often times youth in this population have no support system, making their caseworker the primary source of stability in their lives.
Recently, one of our caseworkers, Denise, was assigned to a particularly troubled 14-year-old girl named Sadie, who had endured significant trauma. Sadie’s response to her past experiences included running away from her foster home and making decisions that put her in perilous situations. Denise took the time to explain to Sadie the dangers of such actions, assuring her, “You’re not going to scare me away. I will stand by you, no matter what.” Denise asked Sadie to promise that if she ever ran away again, she would write Denise’s phone number on her arm to ensure she could be found.
This agreement proved to be lifesaving. About a week after their conversation, Denise received a call at 1 am from a woman in Chicago who had discovered Sadie and dialed the number on her arm. Without hesitation, Denise set out for Chicago to bring Sadie back. Although Sadie still has a long journey ahead to achieve the safety and peace she deserves, the foundation of trust and the fulfillment of a promise have introduced a glimmer of hope into her life. There is now a small, guiding light at the end of the tunnel for Sadie to follow, providing her with the reassurance and guidance she so desperately needs.
