Social Workers: Supporting Foster Parents and Making a Difference in Milwaukee and Beyond

March is Social Work Month ­­– a time to celebrate and recognize the dedication and empathy social workers across the country deliver while providing important services to those in need.

Wellpoint Care Network is an organization full of over 315 compassionate, committed people fulfilling our mission to help children and families thrive. For 175 years, the work our staff has been doing every day makes a difference and creates ripples of positive impact for our community.

One of the main service areas social workers at Wellpoint Care Network are part of is our Child and Family Well-being team. One of the key aspects is foster parenting, where we help bring safety and stability to the lives of young people and families engaged in (or at risk of involvement with) the child welfare system.

With more than 7,000 children in Wisconsin who need foster care, the need for foster parents remains great.

By becoming a foster parent with Wellpoint Care Network, you will receive endless training and support. From crisis response and stabilization to ongoing programs to assist in overcoming adversity and prevent future trauma, we’re here when you need us.

In honor of Social Work Month, we want to highlight just a few of the great things foster parents have to say about our Child and Family Well-being support staff:

Megan Moser, Treatment Foster Care Specialist, was rated a 5/5, but only because the scale didn’t go higher. The caregiver noted that she’s worked with Megan for years and described her as a “super social worker.” Whether the caregiver needs respite care, help with managing appointments for the kids, connection to more resources or just to brainstorm ideas, she feels that she can always rely on Megan to provide the best support possible.

Corrie Lautenbach Hicks, Foster & Kinship Navigator, was commended for helping the caregiver through a difficult time that nearly led to them closing their license. Once Corrie came onto the case, they noted that they felt listened to, valued and empowered to keep going.

Jaliyah Wesley, Treatment Foster Care Specialist, was given a rating of 5/5 and described as “fantastic.” The caregiver noted that she feels like she is part of a team and everyone does their part.

Even when Jaliyah may be out of the office, her supervisor Suzanne Monda will call to check in and make sure she has what she needs.

Ashia Rhodes, Case Manager, was commended for being a great support/ resource and always answering the caregiver’s questions. The caregiver gives Ashia a 10/10 rating and pointed out that she often goes above and beyond to connect her and the children in her care with the resources and services they need to thrive.

Tiffany Myrick, Foster Care Licensing Specialist, was described as very helpful and supportive. The caregiver noted that she is “on top of things” and even when she had to walk through tedious training modules with her, she was very patient and took the time to show her what needed to be done.

Tricia McDade, Case Manager, was described as fantastic, responsive and helpful. The caregiver gives her a rating of 10/10 and notes that you can tell by her work that she truly cares about the kids.

Merinah Popp, Case Manager, was described as “fantastic and sharp.” As a previous social worker manager, the caregiver noted that she would have loved to have Merinah on her team.

Heather Polinske, Case Manager, was commended for being “fantastic and sharp.” Even when there have been disagreements or uncomfortable conversations, the caregiver noted that Heather takes the time to listen, understand and apply feedback as needed.

At Wellpoint Care Network, our employees are the key to fulfilling our mission and meeting the needs of the children and families we serve.

We’re proud to offer a variety of positions that serve the community. Every employee has the opportunity to do meaningful work and create impact for children and families across southeast Wisconsin.