September is Child Welfare Workforce Month, a time to recognize and honor the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to protect children, strengthen families and build stronger communities. These individuals often go above and beyond to create safe, stable environments for vulnerable children and their loved ones. Among these inspiring individuals is Kelcie Pusch, a clinical supervisor with TFI’s Grow Nurturing Families program. Kelcie’s journey into child welfare, her commitment to helping families thrive and her passion for creating lasting change embody the very heart of this important work.
Kelcie’s Path to Child Welfare
Kelcie didn’t initially plan for a career in child welfare, but her path took a meaningful turn during her college years. While pursuing biology at Emporia State University, a psychology class sparked a new passion that shifted her focus entirely. She went on to earn a master’s degree in clinical psychology, which opened the door to her first role in the field, a pivotal internship with a foster care agency in Topeka, Kansas.
That internship, during which Kelcie provided outpatient therapy, set the foundation for her future in child welfare. It was there that she discovered a profound desire to support children and families in meaningful ways. After more than five years working in the agency’s aftercare program, Kelcie joined TFI in January 2021. Today, as a clinical supervisor with the Grow Nurturing Families program, she plays a critical role in helping families build stronger bonds, stay connected and thrive together.
Milestones and Impactful Moments
For Kelcie, success isn’t measured by a single moment but by the many small and meaningful victories along the way. Whether working in residential care, outpatient therapy or family preservation, she finds deep fulfillment in watching families overcome challenges and build brighter futures.
One of the most rewarding aspects of her work is seeing families graduate from the program and reach a point where they can move forward with confidence and independence. She fondly recalls working with a father who turned his life around to create a safe, loving environment for his children. She also remembers helping a Spanish-speaking family whose young son experienced incredible growth in language development through play-based therapy. These experiences highlight Kelcie’s dedication to creating trusting relationships and supporting families as they navigate their unique challenges.
A Heart for Families and Community
Kelcie’s impact extends far beyond her job responsibilities. Known for her willingness to go the extra mile, she has helped families with transportation, run errands and delivered essential supplies, all while providing the guidance and care they need to thrive.
Kelcie’s commitment to her community is evident in her volunteer work with the Junior League of Topeka, a national organization focused on improving local communities. Through this work, she’s helped distribute period packs to schools, raised awareness about poverty through initiatives like Dress for Change and advocated for policy changes such as eliminating the pink tax on period products.
Kelcie’s work has an even greater impact in rural areas, where resources are often limited. By helping families stay together, reducing court involvement and supporting children’s success in school, she is strengthening not just individual families but entire communities. Every child who remains safely with their family is a step toward creating a more stable and supportive future for all.
Motivation and Vision
Kelcie finds inspiration in her team, knowing that the support she provides to her colleagues directly affects the families they serve. She sees her role as an opportunity to not only empower families but also to empower her staff, ensuring that everyone involved has the tools they need to succeed.
Her vision for child welfare is rooted in compassion, advocacy and action. Kelcie believes in meeting families where they are, connecting them with resources and building relationships founded on trust and mutual respect. Her goal is to keep families together and help them find the stability and happiness they deserve.
Celebrating Child Welfare Professionals
Kelcie’s story is a testament to the dedication, heart, and resilience of child welfare professionals nationwide. This Child Welfare Workforce Month, we honor Kelcie and all those who work to protect children and strengthen families. Their contributions remind us of the profound impact one person can make when they lead with empathy and purpose.
To every child welfare professional, thank you for all that you do. Together, we can create a future where every child has the love, support, and stability they need to thrive.
