Protecting Children is Our Number One Priority

I just wanted to send a huge shout out to Kaitlin and Kendra. Last week, Kendra was shadowing Kaitlin for a supervised visit with a little girl and her mother. During the visit, Kaitlin and Kendra noticed some red flags with the little girl. There were physical and verbal signs of abuse/neglect. They made the decision to contact the proper channels to have this investigated further. This resulted in the child being removed from the current foster home due the intensity and nature of abuse/neglect. When dealing with situations like these, it's easy to ignore signs of abuse and neglect. It's easy think "this might be nothing, and I don't want to start trouble for what might be nothing". It's easy to just let it go because you know it's going to create a lot of extra work. One quote comes to mind regarding this matter, especially in this field: "There will be a time when we must choose between what is easy and what is right". -Albus Dumbledore

It can be really hard sometimes to know what to do in situations like these. You chance falsely reporting what could potentially be really great foster parents. You risk reporting something that has perfectly reasonable explanations. When dealing with a situation like this, it's always best to ask yourself what you would regret the most: Falsely reporting foster parents and them being mad and bitter towards you, or not reporting it and potentially contributing to the continued abuse of a child. Always trust your gut! Kaitlin and Kendra's actions potentially saved a little girl from enduring anymore trauma and abuse. This is what our job is all about. They both demonstrated wonderful social work skills and courage. Keep up the great work! ~Justin Kettermen, Unit Supervisor, Potomac Highlands