At Crossnore, Social Work Month carries special meaning. It’s a time to celebrate not just a single role or title, but the many individuals who embody the heart of social work in everything they do!
Here’s the truth: at Crossnore, social work isn’t confined to one job description.. Across our organization, dozens of staff members carry social work values into their roles, whether or not “social worker” appears in their title.
This month, we’re proud to highlight just a few of those individuals who help bring that mission to life!
Shaun: Building Connection Through Everyday Moments
Shaun, a Residential Supervisor on our Winston-Salem campus, has been part of the Crossnore family since 2019, after years of service as a Cottage Parent. His work centers on something simple, yet powerful: connection.
Whether he’s spending time with kids, trying something new together, or creating moments of joy, Shaun understands that relationships are the foundation of healing and growth. His approach reflects one of the core principles of social work, meeting people where they are and showing up with consistency and care.
His advice is a reminder we can all carry with us:
“What you put into the world is what you get out of it.”
Anna: A Foundation of Empathy in Action
Anna’s journey into social work began with an appreciation for the field’s versatility. Today, she brings that vision to life through a trauma-informed, empathy-centered approach that shapes her work every day.
Social workers can be found in nearly every corner of our communities, from therapy clinics and hospitals to schools and beyond. At Crossnore, Anna represents that broad reach, using her training and perspective to support children and families with compassion and understanding.
Her work reminds us that social work is as much about how we show up as it is about what we do.
Kacy: Connecting the Bigger Picture
In Program Integrity, Kacy’s role offers a unique lens into the scope of social work. Her work touches every part of the organization, emphasizing collaboration, insight, and adaptability.
No two days look the same, and that’s exactly what makes her role so impactful. From supporting internal processes to influencing how services are delivered, Kacy helps ensure that the care provided at Crossnore is thoughtful, effective, and ever-evolving.
Her contributions highlight something essential: social work extends beyond direct service. It shapes systems, strengthens communities, and drives meaningful change at every level.
Adam: Leading with Creativity and Care
Adam brings social work values to life through leadership, mentorship, and creativity. In staff development, he empowers others by grounding his work in the core principles of service, social justice, dignity, relationships, integrity, and competence.
But his impact doesn’t stop there.
From roller coasters to camping trips to time on the slopes, Adam embraces play as a powerful tool for connection. As he puts it, play is the language of kids, and through it, relationships are built and trust is formed.
One of the most meaningful parts of his work comes full circle, hearing from former youth who reach out to share how they’re doing. These moments are lasting reminders that the care and connection offered today can shape a lifetime.
Adam’s message is one that defines the heart of social work:
It only takes one caring, nurturing adult to change a child’s life.
More Than A Title
While we celebrate Shaun, Anna, Kacy, and Adam, they represent just a few of the dozens across Crossnore who carry social work values into their roles every day.
From residential staff and educators to administrators and program leaders, so many members of our team approach their work through a lens of empathy, advocacy, and service. Even when “social worker” isn’t in their title, the impact is unmistakable!
At its core, social work is about showing up, for children and families.
A Month of Gratitude (and a Year-Round Commitment)
Social Work Month is a time to recognize the dedication it takes to do this work. It’s also a reminder of the importance of supporting those who carry it forward, with encouragement, resources, and gratitude.
At Crossnore, we are endlessly thankful for the individuals who make this mission possible. Their work is not always easy, but it is always meaningful.
