#supportVAkids

In this episode of #SupportVAKids, host Mariellen Keely talks with Richard Nozzi-Dardano, Director of Project & Program Support at the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS). With decades of experience leading large-scale initiatives across public and nonprofit sectors, Richard shares how his team helps the agency turn vision into action by supporting projects that strengthen operations, improve outcomes, and make services more responsive to the needs of families.

Richard reflects on what it takes to manage complexity in a statewide organization — from coordinating across divisions and aligning resources to cultivating a culture of accountability and innovation. He discusses lessons learned from leading modernization efforts, fostering collaboration between program and technology teams, and ensuring that every project keeps people at the center.

Together, Mariellen and Richard explore how structure and creativity can coexist in public service, what it means to build a learning organization, and why strong project governance matters for the future of human services in Virginia.

In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely chats with Chanda Glass, Training Consultant in Virginia’s child support program. From her earliest days as a "bring your daughter to work" participant to her current role delivering in-person and virtual training across the state, Chanda shares her love for learning, teaching, and the ever-evolving nature of child support work.

Chanda reflects on her path through the agency—from PST to SES Senior—and why being both a teacher and student keeps her grounded and energized. She shares how the training team prepares field staff for policy shifts and new systems, including what excites her (and makes her "nervous-cited") about the VChamps modernization project. With wisdom about giving yourself grace and keeping your light shining, this episode is full of encouragement for anyone supporting families across Virginia.

🎧 Tune in for a warm, insightful conversation about growth, guidance, and glowing through change.

In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Stacie Vecchietti, Policy Specialist with the Office of Trauma and Resilience Policy at the Virginia Department of Social Services. With more than 30 years of experience in social services, Stacie brings a deep and varied perspective shaped by her work in substance use counseling, anti-violence advocacy, Peace Corps service, and now, policy development focused on building trauma-informed and healing-centered systems across Virginia.

Stacie traces her journey from her early days at the Daily Planet and her time in Belize developing a prison-based substance use program, to more than two decades leading prevention and intervention efforts for survivors of violence. She shares how her team is helping state and local agencies “walk the walk” by integrating trauma-informed practices internally, fostering collaboration across systems, and supporting communities in creating environments of safety, connection, and growth.

Mariellen and Stacie also discuss the relaunch of the Virginia HEALS website—redesigned as a statewide hub for trauma-informed tools, lived experience engagement resources, and practical guidance for organizations working to strengthen well-being and resilience. Reflecting on what keeps her grounded amid such meaningful work, Stacie reminds listeners that big change begins with small, consistent actions—and that compassion, practiced daily, is how systems truly heal.

🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about purpose, persistence, and putting trauma-informed values into action.

In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Terry Gates, Senior Analyst on the Data Informs Team at Virginia Child Support. With over 30 years of service, Terry brings a unique blend of field experience, policy knowledge, and a deep commitment to using data to improve outcomes for families.

Terry shares his journey from case management in local offices to leading the development of performance reports that shape how the agency operates. He discusses the importance of building systems that outlast individuals, why safeguarding data matters, and how the team is improving access to meaningful information through new tools and automation. Most of all, he emphasizes that behind every report is a desire to help people—whether they’re families in need or frontline staff making tough decisions every day.

In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Sheila Garden, Program Coordinator Senior with the Program Services team at Virginia Child Support—and a longtime public servant whose career has touched nearly every corner of the agency. As part of our TANF and VIEW series, Sheila reflects on her earlier roles as a case manager, paternity specialist, and intergovernmental expert, offering a firsthand look at how case management, support enforcement, and customer service all work together to serve families.

Sheila shares lessons from her time in the field, common barriers parents face, and how misinformation can create unnecessary roadblocks. She also recounts the story of meeting Shalita Gaskins—first as a customer, now as a colleague—and why building relationships, sharing resources, and treating people with dignity matter at every step.

🎧 Tune in to hear how Sheila’s deep experience and compassion help connect programs, support families, and shape the future of child support in Virginia.

In this powerful episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Shelita Gaskins, Senior Enforcement Specialist at the Central Virginia District Office—and the behind-the-scenes force that helps produce this very podcast. Shelita shares her full-circle story, from receiving TANF and participating in the VIEW program to building a career with Virginia Child Support and becoming a leader in her community.

Shelita talks candidly about the challenges of navigating government assistance, the gaps in support that can hinder long-term stability, and the small moments of empowerment that helped her believe in herself and her future. She reflects on the impact of programs like VIEW and child support when paired with a long-term plan and personal motivation—and offers honest advice to others trying to find their way.

🎧 Tune in for a raw, inspiring conversation about growth, perspective, and the power of seeing the other side of the desk

In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely kicks off a special series exploring the intersection between child support and the VIEW program by talking with Annette Johnson, Senior Job Developer with Henrico County’s Department of Social Services. With over 20 years of experience helping families move toward stability, Annette shares her passion for workforce development, the barriers families face, and why a job is just the beginning—not the end—of the journey.

Annette walks listeners through the VIEW program’s structure, from job training and transportation to child care support and career planning. She shares how VIEW works to build true self-sufficiency, and why helping participants "dream big" matters more than ever. With practical insight and heartfelt stories—including a recent success she helped support—this episode highlights the quiet work of social service professionals making a difference every day.

🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about building careers, meeting people where they are, and showing up for the long haul.

In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely talks with Tondra Boone, Administrative Staff Specialist to the CFO for the Division of Finance at the Virginia Department of Social Services. With nearly three decades in state service, Tondra shares her journey from her early roles in the field to her current position supporting the agency’s financial operations.

Tondra opens up about her roots in Southampton County, her life as a military spouse and mom, and the personal experiences that have shaped her dedication to public service. She reflects on the behind-the-scenes work that keeps programs running, the importance of adaptability, and why building strong relationships matters just as much in finance as it does in frontline service.

🎧 Tune in for a warm, personal conversation about service, resilience, and the people behind the numbers.

In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely speaks with Natasha Stevens, Program Support Technician at the Central Virginia District Office. Natasha talks about her professional growth from eligibility roles to child support, and the mentors and leaders who helped her believe in herself along the way.

From managing the front desk to offering encouragement to families in crisis, Natasha shares how her perspective has been shaped by service, determination, and a deep belief in the power of kindness. She also shares her love of karaoke, her family roots in Prince George’s County, and how laughter helps her stay grounded—even during the busiest days.

🎧 Tune in for a joyful, grounded conversation about growth, confidence, and making your own way.

In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely talks with Tiffany Joyner, Senior Program Consultant at the Division of Child Support Enforcement. Tiffany reflects on her career journey—from starting as a child support worker to becoming a trusted policy advisor and resource across Virginia.

Tiffany shares how a spirit of service and a strong sense of purpose have guided her through complex roles, unexpected challenges, and big-picture change. Whether she’s writing policy, supporting local offices, or asking tough questions in the name of fairness, Tiffany brings grace, humor, and insight to everything she does. She also shares what motivates her, how she supports others, and why it’s okay not to have all the answers—yet.

🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about staying true to your values, leading with care, and learning along the way."