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’re 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. 

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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’ve 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: 

• “For 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.”- Kay Phillips 

• “If you’re 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.”- Jennifer Gamble 

• “When a child feels safe enough to trust me, to tell me something they’ve never told anyone before, that’s what keeps me going. It’s the most rewarding feeling.” – Scott Steele 

 

Resources:  

• National Children’s Alliance Children’s Advocacy Center’s Staffing and Salary Survey – 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 

 

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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’s Advocacy Center Supervisors [Resource]