Pike County proclaims June 2025 Child Welfare Professional Appreciation Week

Pike County Commissioners and county staff on June 18 proclaimed June 2025 as Child Welfare Professional Appreciation Week, recognizing the work and risks faced by child welfare professionals.

The meeting included a reading of the proclamation text noting the duties and challenges of child welfare staff: investigating abuse and neglect, providing family services, assessing safety, and supporting transitions to adulthood. The proclamation text cited workforce challenges, the emotional and physical risks child welfare professionals face, and the importance of community partnerships.

Michelle (identified in the meeting as a Children & Youth Services representative) told commissioners she is “so proud” of caseworkers and described the role as “an extremely difficult job” that often receives little appreciation. Michelle said workers persist “because we care” and because “children function at their best when they are in a loving, supportive home.” She thanked community partners listed in the meeting (local churches, the district attorney’s office, drug and alcohol providers, VIP and CASA) and said the county will continue to offer support so “every child in Pike County continues to thrive in a safe and loving home.”

Chair comments in the record expressed appreciation for the county’s caseworkers and noted the commissioners’ practice of annual recognitions.

Ending: The proclamation was read into the record and recognized at the meeting; no policy change or new funding was recorded with the proclamation vote itself.