Child Welfare Workforce Month honors the professionals who dedicate their lives to protecting children and strengthening families. This month, we spotlight Kelcie Pusch, a clinical supervisor whose journey from psychology student to child welfare advocate reflects resilience, empathy and a deep commitment to community well-being.
Kelcie’s Background & Story:
Kelcie’s path into child welfare wasn’t traditional—it was transformative. Initially a biology major at Emporia State University, she discovered her passion through a psychology class that changed everything. She went on to earn a master’s in clinical psychology and began her career with an internship at a foster care agency in Topeka, providing outpatient therapy. That experience ignited a lifelong passion. Kelcie transitioned into a full-time role in the agency’s aftercare program, where she spent more than five years before joining TFI in January 2021. Today, she serves as a clinical supervisor in TFI’s Grow Nurturing Families program, helping families connect, stay together and thrive.
Kelcie’s Career:
Kelcie doesn’t define her career by a single moment—instead, she finds meaning in every milestone. Whether working in residential care or outpatient therapy, she sees transformation in the families she serves. One of the most powerful moments comes at discharge—when a family completes a program and is ready to move forward independently. These moments, filled with growth and resilience, are what fuel her passion.
She recalls working with a father who overcame a troubled past to create a safe, loving home for his children and a Spanish-speaking family whose young son made remarkable progress in language development through play-based therapy. These stories reflect Kelcie’s belief in the power of support, trust and perseverance.
Kelcie’s Impact on Families & the Community:
Kelcie’s influence extends far beyond her job description. She’s known for going the extra mile—running errands, helping with transportation and delivering essentials to families in need. Her commitment to advocacy is equally strong through her volunteer work with the Junior League of Topeka, a national volunteer organization focused on community improvement.
She’s helped distribute period packs to schools, participated in the Dress for Change initiative to raise awareness about poverty and advocated for the elimination of the pink tax on period products. Her community work is deeply connected to her mission in child welfare—removing barriers and empowering families.
Kelcie’s work has a ripple effect in rural communities, where resources are limited. Preventing foster care placements, reducing court involvement and improving school behavior all contribute to stronger, more stable neighborhoods. Every child kept out of the system is a win for the family and the community.
Kelcie’s Motivation & Vision:
As a clinical supervisor, Kelcie finds motivation in her team. She feels a deep responsibility to support her staff, knowing their success directly impacts the families they serve. Her goal is clear: prevent foster care placements and keep families together.
Kelcie’s vision for child welfare is rooted in empathy, advocacy and action. She believes in honest conversations, connecting families to resources and going above and beyond to create lasting change. Her ultimate goal is simple but powerful: to help every family she works with find happiness and stability.
This Child Welfare Workforce Month, Kelcie’s story reminds us of the incredible impact one can have when leading with heart and purpose.
Child welfare professionals like Kelcie tirelessly protect and support vulnerable children and families. Let’s celebrate their contributions and commit to supporting child welfare initiatives in our own communities. Together, we can build a future where every child has the stability, support and love they deserve.
# # #
