“The first time I ever made fried chicken, the outside was so delicious. The inside was raw.” Isabella recalls, highlighting a humorous yet poignant moment of newfound independence. For Isabella, like many young individuals transitioning into adulthood from challenging circumstances, learning independent living skills was both exciting and daunting. Coming from a background where she was primarily responsible for her younger siblings, this period marked a significant shift towards self-discovery and personal growth, facilitated by the support systems in place for youth like her. The resources provided, such as gift cards for setting up transitional housing rooms, were more than just material aid; they were a symbolic step towards self-reliance and creating a personal space. With the guidance of social workers, Isabella navigated the process of choosing her room essentials, a seemingly small act that held immense personal significance.
Isabella’s experience underscores the vital role of social workers and, by extension, the Department Of Children And Family Services, in providing comprehensive support to young people during critical transitions. For Isabella and her five younger siblings, social workers were not just case managers but also crucial figures offering stability and direction. “My social workers were always great,” she shares, emphasizing their proactive approach in encouraging her to prioritize her well-being while also considering her siblings’ involvement in her life. This delicate balance of personal growth and familial responsibility is a key aspect of the support provided by these departments. Isabella specifically recalls the day her family was taken into care, praising her social worker’s ability to keep the siblings together, a testament to the thoughtful and compassionate approach often employed in these sensitive situations.
The breadth of services offered through the Department of Children and Family Services became apparent to Isabella through her social workers. Crucially, she was introduced to opportunities like the Business Development Internship. This program not only provided her with a paid internship but also paved the way for a lasting career. For four years, Isabella has been working in a role where she can directly assist others who are facing similar circumstances to those she overcame. Her journey exemplifies the transformative potential of these support systems, turning personal challenges into opportunities for professional development and community contribution.
“The internship is a great internship for youth – I just want it to get spread out more so more youth to be aware of it,” Isabella passionately states. She recognizes the profound impact such programs can have and advocates for greater awareness and accessibility. Her own unexpected career path, working for the County, is a direct result of the opportunities facilitated by the Department of Children and Family Services. Isabella’s message to social workers and the wider system is clear: “Understanding youth and taking time to understand and mentor them, you never know what may be going on at home. Believing in kids is what’s going to help them move forward and believe in themselves.” Her story is a powerful illustration of how belief, coupled with comprehensive support from the Department of Children and Family Services, can empower young people to build successful and fulfilling lives.
