Why did you choose YV OR What appealed to you about your current position with Youth Villages? Etc.

I began as a behavior specialist and moved to a foster care counselor and now to a clinical liaison. I was impressed by the supervision and area for growth with youth villages when I was job searching.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your first year at Youth Villages and how did you overcome them?

I had to get into the role of advocate (which I now love) and learn to be assertive and effective in getting the needs of the children met. It has also been tough being a young female in the field and overcoming scrutiny by professionals in the field, educators, birth and foster parents since I have no children of my own and I am young. 

What benefits or advancement opportunities have you taken advantage of while working at Youth Villages?

I am now on my third position and have received advances in pay after 6 months and a year. I am also interning with the Specialized Crisis Program for my graduate school requirements.

What is one piece advice you would give someone who is considering working for Youth Villages?

It is a wonderful place to practice in the field and make a difference in children and families' lives. The mission and values of Youth Villages are spectacular and the employees belie in them and follow them.

What is a typical day like in your position?

There is not much "typical" they are all so different. I am involved in meetings with school, birth parents, DCS, court systems. I conduct individual therapy sessions with my children and work on getting their needs met. I set up visitation for children and their birth families as well as siblings. I advocate constantly. I have supervision meetings and team meetings on a weekly basis. Sometimes crises come up that must be dealt with..and these are never predictable. I am never bored!

What kind of support are you given in your position?

I have a wonderful team! I have a supervisor that I meet with regularly as well as a consultant. I also have an active regional supervisor.

What has been the most rewarding experience so far in your role at Youth Villages?

Finding permanency for the children I work with and seeing the strides they make and the success that occur.

How would you describe the company culture here at Youth Villages?

Family like!

What are the children and families like that you work with?

I love all my kids! They are all very different and I mold my treatment to fit their needs and desires. They have mostly had difficult lives and are often faced with difficult futures but they are strong and the most resilient people I have ever met.

What is the best thing about working for Youth Villages?

My kids and my co-workers!