At the most recent P.E.O. Sisterhood meeting, Kim Russell, from Oblong, shared her educational journey. See below to read what she has written and presented.
Approximately 25 years after graduating from NCHS, I felt God was calling me to do more with my life. I had the privilege of caring for an elderly relative. It was through that process I made the acquaintance of many individuals in the field of social work. This is how I determined social work was what God was calling me to do.
So, I began my educational journey one baby step at a time. I took classes in–person and on–line through Lincoln trail and Wabash Valley Colleges, as my work schedule allowed. I completed my associates degree in the spring of 2016. Shortly thereafter, I enrolled in the Bachelor of Social Work program through Indiana Wesleyan College. The program was offered on–line which worked perfectly for me as I continued working. When it came time to find a place to complete my internship hours, I learned of The Guardian Center‘s Crawford County Satellite in Robinson. While interning, I became enthralled by the position of forensic interviewer. Approximately one month from the completion of my internship the forensic interviewer resigned from her position. Her resignation allowed me to step into that role.
To become a forensic interviewer, one must have a bachelor‘s degree and complete a 35–hour training, a mock interview, and a written exam. To maintain the position, I must complete continuing education hours and four peer reviews each year.
At The Guardian Center, we receive referrals from law enforcement and/or the Department of Children and Family Services of children that have been abused either sexually or physically or have been witness to abuse. Once a referral is received a forensic interview is scheduled. The child comes to our office and is greeted by our advocate caseworker. The advocate completes consent forms with the family and explains the process of the interview. Once the advocate finishes her task, I introduce myself to the child and escort them to the interview room. During the interview it is my responsibility to gather the details of the alleged abuse in a non–leading format. The interviews are recorded and team members (law enforcement and/or DCFS) observe from another room. If the child makes a disclosure our advocate can make referrals for counseling, medical exams if necessary, and provide emotional support throughout the court process.
It was through this process of growth and change that God made sense out of my life‘s journey. Finally, the happenings in my past could be used for the good of others. I can now say I thank God for the experiences of my former self.
It is my intent to use my life to have a positive impact on the lives of the youth we serve at The Guardian Center. I am thankful for the PCE grant and the intent of your chapter to impact the
lives of other women. The grant monies I received helped off–set tuition cost while earning my bachelor‘s degree. The grant helped ease the financial burden my family experienced during my educational journey. So, once again, I say thank you for your intent to positively impact the lives of others.
