Episode 19: Mandated reporters, CPS Leadership, and Volunteers: Is Better Possible in Foster Care?

Episode summary We often describe foster care and CPS as broken—and then we work like nothing can change. In this episode, Shanelle challenges that reflex and asks a harder question: Do you even think better is possible? Drawing on a college-days story (learning to do things differently) and real child welfare dynamics, she outlines what families, volunteers, workers, and mandated reporters actually need: clarity, connection, and a network of support. She introduces SYNCing Child Welfare, a national program built to simplify navigation, reduce confusion, and strengthen cross-system partnerships. You’ll hear about Why calling foster care/CPS “broken” can lock us into the same trainings, same process, same results. How belief → behavior: if we believe change is possible, we move differently. What families need (clarity), volunteers need (connection), and workers need (support)—and how blame & shame undercut all three. The role of mandated reporters and partners in reducing confusion and building trust with families. SYNCing Child Welfare: a 360° framework with tools for conflict navigation, partnership building, and monthly Q&A to surface real questions. You are personally invited to join an online session to learn more. Shanelle is hosting two online SYNCing Child Welfare preview sessions in early 2026: Wednesday, January 7 (9:00–9:45 a.m. CT) REGISTER HERE or Thursday, January 8 (4:00–4:45 p.m. CT) REGISTER HERE. Stay updated on the latest SYNCING Child Welfare updates by joining the newsletter HERE.