Child Welfare Workforce Month, celebrated annually in September, recognizes the invaluable contributions of child welfare professionals, who advocate for the well-being of children and families. PFS Blue Skies would like to celebrate the dedicated social workers, case managers, administrators and support staff for their tireless commitment to ensuring safety, stability and hope for their daily impact in their communities.
Blue Skies is proud to spotlight Maria Mariscal, a devoted case manager whose journey in child welfare is inspired by personal and academic roots. Her passion for improving children’s lives is a shining example of the dedication essential to advancing the child welfare community.
Inspired by a Unique Path:
Maria, one of six siblings, grew up as a military child in Southern California. She earned her sociology degree from Chico State with a focus on systems like incarceration and foster care, especially among adult populations.
After graduating, she found limited career options until she discovered Blue Skies, a Pathway Family Services residential facility. She began as a youth care worker in March 2024, quickly advancing to a supervisor and then a case manager the following June, igniting her passion for child welfare.
Personal Experiences Shaping Her Approach:
Although she hasn’t been in foster care herself, her perspective is shaped by witnessing her son’s journey as an autistic, nonverbal child. Her son’s experiences have taught her patience, empathy and adaptability—qualities she applies to her work. She understands that every child’s needs are unique and require personalized care.
A Memorable Story:
One of Maria’s standout experiences involves a seven-year-old girl who entered the facility with severe aggression. Maria’s unwavering care fostered a deep connection and the girl began calling her “mom.” Even after moving to a foster home, Maria stays in touch with her. She sees the girl’s initial behavior as a test of love—one that Maria passed by providing steady emotional support, helping the girl regain trust and start to heal.
These profound moments of trust strengthen her dedication to being a steadfast source of support for children in their most challenging times.
Surpassing Limits Consistently:
Though her current role doesn’t involve daily interaction with children, her devotion shines through. She’s always available, offering help and encouragement whenever required. Outside of work, she attends key life events like baptisms and concerts. Her extraordinary care exceeds job expectations, demonstrating an enduring love that reassures children they are heard, valued and supported.
Staying Strong Through Struggles:
Maria’s motivation is fueled by her desire to validate and support children’s emotions—something she lacked growing up. Her household often dismissed feelings of sadness or anxiety, but she now strives to be the adult who listens and reassures. On tough days, she prioritizes being a steady source of compassion, ensuring children are always supported in ways that help them develop emotional security and confidence.
Driving Positive Change:
Maria believes her program’s success lies in its compassionate approach. Unlike traditional placements that may respond with law enforcement, her team emphasizes de-escalation and second chances. Children often express surprise at the care they receive, feeling genuinely supported for the first time. By fostering trust and a safe environment, Maria and her colleagues help break cycles of trauma, leading to stronger and healthier communities.
She emphasizes that normalcy, trust and unconditional love are foundational in working with children in crisis. She is proud to be part of a team that upholds these values and is grateful for the opportunity to create meaningful and lasting change in the lives of children and families.
Child welfare workers like Maria Mariscal inspire progress and create healthier, stronger futures for families and children. Their commitment changes lives and builds brighter possibilities every day.
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