SIUE Foster Care Programs Inspire DCFS Caseworkers through Motivational Speaker Trisha Gordon

SIUE Foster Care Programs Inspire DCFS Caseworkers through Motivational Speaker Trisha Gordon

Although they were familiar with the essence of the subject matter - the nobility of the mission and nuances of the methodology - Illinois Department of Children and Families Services (DCFS) caseworkers participating in Southern Illinois University Edwardsville East St. Louis Center's Foster Care Programs attended a special training session focused on mental health concerns in the foster care system.

Inspirational speaker and author Trisha R. Gordon, who spent 10 years in foster care, delivered a rousing, potent and timely presentation on Wednesday, June 4 during a Foster Care Empowerment Breakfast on the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus.

"As a former foster care youth focused on inspiring others, foster youth, caregivers and child welfare professionals, I wanted to stress some key areas of importance," said Gordon. "First, I wanted them to remember that each time we interact with a youth or family member, we hold a piece of their mental health in our hands."

Additional points Gordon highlighted included:

• Shift negative mindsets into a positive outlook by turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
• Accept the CHALLENGE to advocate for and support diverse opportunities and experiences for foster care youth (i.e., storytelling, art, music).
• Offer a consistent, trusting and ongoing relationship during and after care.
• Ensure that as child welfare professionals, we take care of ourselves to guarantee we are equipped better to support foster children and families.

"We were determined to give this training because we work closely with the caseworkers, and we want them to know how much we value and appreciate their collaboration," said Building Futures Program Director Ora Lockett. "Without their ongoing efforts, Building Futures would not exist - as we are a referral-based program, and their partnership is essential to our success."

Gordon stressed the necessity of caseworkers to continue to excel and serve youth to the best of their abilities.

"My presentation was crucial to caseworkers because it reminded them of the importance of their work, the lasting impact they can have on our future generations and that it's worth it," said Gordon. "It also encourages workers to adjust and to continue to find innovative ways to approach and improve communication with youth."

"I hope this training not only informed, but educated those who work directly with the clients we serve," added Lockett. "It's significant that caseworkers understand the full scope of resources available to support foster care youth. Networking plays a huge role in that, especially since many of our counterparts are not fully aware of the wraparound services offered here on the Wyvetter H. Younge Higher Education Campus."

Also speaking with and welcoming DCFS caseworkers was SIUE Project Success Program Director Tiana Montgomery.

Building Futures serves youth, ages 15-21, who are under the supervision of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). The program provides experiences and case management support that develop life skills and self-sufficiency for participants. Services include counseling and training in educational support, post-secondary educational support, vocational/career preparation, budget/financial management, independent living skills and financial assistance.

Project Success serves youth, ages 5-14, who are under the supervision of Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). The program operates from 3:30-8:30 p.m. and includes academic support, health services, nutritious meals, social/life skills, and recreation/physical fitness activities.

Photos:
Tisha R. Gordon, inspirational speaker, author, coach and mentor, spoke to Illinois DCFS caseworkers during a special training by the SIUE Building Futures Program.

Gordon speaks with case manager Randa Mendenhall.