Social Workers: Supporting Foster Parents and Making a Difference in Milwaukee and Beyond
With more than 315 compassionate, committed employees, Wellpoint Care Network has been making a difference and creating ripples of positive impact for our community for 175 years.
During Social Work Month this March, we wanted to celebrate and recognize the dedication and empathy our social workers — and thousands more across the country — deliver while providing important services to those in need.
Many of our social workers support foster parents and kinship caregivers as part of our Child and Family Well-being team. They work tirelessly every day to 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.
We recently asked our caregivers for feedback on our Child and Family Well-being support staff. Here are just a few of the responses:
MEGAN MOSER
Treatment Foster Care Specialist
Megan was rated a 5 stars out of 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 they need respite care, help with managing appointments for the kids, connection to resources or just to brainstorm ideas, the caregiver knows they can always rely on Megan to provide the best support possible.
CORRIE LAUTENBACK HICKS
Foster & Kinship Navigator
Corrie was commended for helping her 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 & SUZANNE MONDA
Treatment Foster Care Specialist
Jaliyah was given a 5 out of 5 rating and described as “fantastic.” The caregiver noted that Jaliyah makes them feel like they’re part of a team, with everyone doing their part.
Even when Jaliyah may be out of the office, her supervisor Suzanne Monda will call to check in and make sure the caregiver has everything they need to succeed.
ASHIA RHODES
Case Manager
Ashia received a 10 out of 10 rating, with the caregiver noting she often goes above and beyond to connect them and the children in their care with the resources and services they need to thrive. Ashia was also commended for being a great support and resource, always taking the time to answer her caregivers’ questions.
TIFFANY MYRICK
Foster Care Licensing Specialist
Tiffany was described as being very helpful and supportive. The caregiver noted that Tiffany is always on top of things — even when she had to walk her caregiver through tedious training modules, she was very patient and always took the time to explain what needed to be done.
TRICIA McDADE
Case Manager
Tricia’s caregiver described her “fantastic, responsive and helpful.” They gave Tricia a rating of 10 out of 10 and notes that it’s evident by the hard work she puts in that she truly cares about the children and families she works with.
MERINAH POPP
Case Manager
Merinah 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
Heather was also 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.
With more than 7,000 Wisconsin children in need of foster care, the need for stable, caring homes 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.
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.
