Child welfare workers play an essential role in ensuring the safety, stability and well-being of children and families in our communities. Each September, during Child Welfare Workforce Month, we take the opportunity to honor these compassionate professionals and their unwavering dedication to creating brighter futures. Today, we are proud to spotlight Maria Mariscal, an Aftercare Case Manager at PFS Blue Skies, whose passion and commitment serve as a true inspiration.
From Military Child to Advocate for Change
Maria Mariscal’s journey into child welfare is a story of passion driven by personal experiences and academic curiosity. Growing up as one of six siblings in a military family in Southern California, Maria developed a deep sense of empathy and resilience early on. Her interest in understanding societal systems led her to earn a sociology degree from Chico State, where she focused on areas like incarceration and foster care.
After graduating, Maria sought opportunities where she could make a meaningful impact. In March 2024, she found her calling at Blue Skies, a Pathway Family Services residential facility. Starting as a youth care worker, she quickly rose to become a supervisor and shortly after, an Aftercare Case Manager. In her role, Maria has found a platform to turn her passion into real change for children and families in need.
Personal Experiences Shape Her Approach
Maria’s ability to connect with children is rooted in her own personal journey. While she hasn’t experienced foster care herself, she brings a unique perspective as the mother of an autistic, nonverbal child. Navigating her son’s challenges has taught her invaluable lessons in patience, adaptability, and understanding—qualities she now applies to her work.
Maria recognizes that every child is unique, with individual needs that require care tailored specifically to them. Her goal is to provide children with the validation, compassion, and encouragement they need to thrive, even during their most challenging moments.
A Story of Connection and Trust
Among Maria’s many impactful experiences is one that stands out vividly. A seven-year-old girl arrived at Blue Skies with severe aggression and emotional challenges. Through consistent care, empathy, and attention, Maria built a meaningful connection with her. Over time, the child’s walls came down, and she even began calling Maria mom.
Though the girl has since transitioned to a foster home, Maria continues to stay in touch with her, offering ongoing support and encouragement. This story is a testament to Maria’s ability to create a safe space where children feel seen, supported, and loved—transforming their pain into healing.
Going Above and Beyond
Maria’s dedication extends far beyond the expectations of her role. Even in her current position, where her work primarily focuses on aftercare, she is known for being consistently available to both children and her team. Whether attending a baptism or cheering on a child at a school concert, Maria shows up, providing a sense of stability and care that resonates deeply with the children she serves.
Her extraordinary commitment reminds children that they are valued and supported, reinforcing the trust that is so critical to their emotional growth and well-being.
Creating a Culture of Care
Maria credits the success of her program to its compassionate and individualized approach to child welfare. Unlike traditional systems that might rely on punitive measures, her team prioritizes de-escalation, understanding and second chances. This approach often surprises the children in their care, many expressing gratitude for feeling genuinely supported for the first time.
By fostering trust and providing a safe environment, Maria and her colleagues help break cycles of trauma, paving the way for healthier and stronger communities.
A Lasting Impact
For Maria, working in child welfare is about much more than providing temporary support—it’s about creating lasting change. She believes every child deserves normalcy, trust and unconditional love, and she works tirelessly to embody those values in her daily interactions.
Maria’s commitment to validating children’s emotions stems from her own upbringing in a household where feelings like sadness or anxiety were often dismissed. Today, she strives to be the adult who listens, reassures and builds confidence in children, giving them the tools they need to navigate life with security and self-assurance.
Honoring Child Welfare Workers Like Maria
Child welfare professionals like Maria Mariscal are the backbone of our communities, offering hope and stability to children during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Her compassion, dedication and determination inspire us all to contribute to building stronger, healthier families and communities.
During this Child Welfare Workforce Month, let’s take a moment to celebrate and thank heroes like Maria, whose work changes lives and creates brighter futures every single day.
