{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"S3E6: Staying Power: A case study of exceptional CAC staff retention","description":"    Why do some professionals remain committed to children's advocacy despite the many challenges? In this episode, we explore the experiences of three long-serving Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) professionals who have navigated decades in this demanding field. Kay Phillips, Jennifer Gamble, and Robert Scott Steele share their stories, offering valuable insights into what drives their long-term dedication to child advocacy. Whether you\u2019re facing struggles yourself or simply curious about the heart behind CAC work, this episode will remind you of the powerful impact of staying committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families.  Download Transcript    Guests:   Jennifer Gamble, BSW    Family Services Coordinator    Child Advocacy Center of Rutherford County, Inc.    Kay W. Phillips, PhD, LISW-CP    Executive Director     Children In Crisis, Inc.   Dorchester Children's Advocacy Center      Robert Scott Steele, MSW, LGSW, LSW  Senior Forensic Interviewer  Harmony House Children's Advocacy Center    Show notes:  In this episode of the SRCAC Exchange, we focus on long-term dedication and resilience in the Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) field. Hosted by Christina Rouse, the episode delves into the challenges and rewards of working in child advocacy, particularly through the stories of experienced professionals like Kay Phillips, Jennifer Gamble, and Robert Scott Steele. These guests share their journeys, motivations, and tips for maintaining passion in this emotionally demanding field. Kay discusses the importance of finding purpose and spirituality in her work, while Jennifer emphasizes the value of self-care and a supportive team, and Scott highlights the importance of trust in building relationships with children in forensic interviewing.  The episode also tackles issues like high turnover rates in CACs and the need for mental and emotional resilience among child advocacy professionals. With statistics showing that only a small percentage of people in the field stay longer than 15 years, the guests offer insights on why they\u2019ve stayed committed and how they manage the pressures of the job. Through their stories, this episode emphasizes the importance of support systems, self-care, and the profound impact of helping children, showing that dedication in this field is both rewarding and challenging. Hit the subscribe button now!       Key Quotes:  \u201cFor me personally, it was just a calling. My background is in business, but I went back to school because I wanted to give my life more purpose. I wanted to make a difference.\u201d- Kay Phillips  \u201cIf you\u2019re going to be a social worker, you need a therapist. I see one regularly, and it helps keep me grounded and focused. Self-care is critical for longevity in this work.\u201d- Jennifer Gamble  \u201cWhen a child feels safe enough to trust me, to tell me something they\u2019ve never told anyone before, that\u2019s what keeps me going. It\u2019s the most rewarding feeling.\u201d \u2013 Scott Steele    Resources:   National Children\u2019s Alliance Children\u2019s Advocacy Center\u2019s Staffing and Salary Survey \u2013 May 2022 Report [Report]  Safe Babies Court - SCIMHA [Website]    Host:   Christina Rouse, MSW  Program Manager, CAC Development  Southern Regional CAC    Project Manager:  Lauren Tanner, MSEd  Program Manager, Communications & Instructional Design  Southern Regional CAC    Want to hear more? Subscribe to The SRCAC Exchange to be sure you don't miss an episode!   Like what you hear? Show your support by leaving a rating and review for The SRCAC Exchange podcast.     Connect with us by:  Visiting our website  Signing up for our emails  Following us on Facebook & LinkedIn  Contacting us  Connect with your Chapter  Midwest Region Chapters  Northeast Region Chapters  Southern Region Chapters  Western Region Chapters  Connect to your Regional CAC  National Children\u2019s Advocacy Center  Peachtree Sound    Sponsor:  Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention    Resources:  CE-CERT Training [Training]  Reset. Reflect. Refuel. Hub [Video Series]   Psychological First Aid Guide for Children\u2019s Advocacy Center Supervisors [Resource]  ","author_name":"The SRCAC Exchange","author_url":"http:\/\/thesrcacexchange.libsyn.com\/website","html":"