Congratulations to FFCR’s “Child Welfare Professional of the Month” Third Quarter Awardees

In the last three months, FFCR has recognized three amazing child welfare professionals with our Child Welfare Professional of the Month Award: Katrina Barnes-Casher a case manager with the Center for Family & Child Enrichment, Vanessa Carroll a Youth Services Case Manager with Our Kids of Miami-Dade/Monroe, Inc., and Kristen Hernandez with the Department of Children & Families. Each of these hard-working and dedicated professionals exemplify true cross-agency collaboration and a commitment to excellence.

Ms. Barnes-Casher is an active and valuable team member of FFCR’s Permanency Roundtable (PRT) Program. She provides critical updates, insightful guidance, and strong support to her PRT team. She gives her full attention to the discussion, taps into her knowledge of the child welfare system, actively brainstorms solutions, and is very important to the PRT process. What’s more, Ms. Barnes-Casher always presents with a bright, positive, and open attitude.

When Ms. Carroll attends Citizen Review Panel Program (CRP) review hearings, she consistently provides up-to-date information and valuable insight regarding the young adults she assists. She actively participates in the review process, is a vocal advocate, and follow-up on issues that arise during the review process.

Ms. Hernandez has been an enthusiastic and engaged supporter of the Permanency Roundtable Program since it started in Miami over four years ago. As the liaison between the PRT Program and Children’s Legal Services for the past 4 years, Ms. Hernandez has contributed a wealth of knowledge and legal expertise. Ms. Hernandez consistently participates on several PRT teams,

providing vital information and assistance. Most importantly, in all of her interactions – during and beyond the PRT process – Ms. Hernandez is guided by the Permanency Values that drive our work. In response to receiving this award, Ms. Hernandez said, “Thank you very much for this honor. Being a part of the PRT team is something I hold near and dear to my heart. This program has been so successful…It is wonderful to be surrounded by a team of people who are so committed to our children’s permanency.” 

CONGRATULATIONS to our awardees and THANK YOU for your invaluable partnership!!