Being new to CARE, I’ve realized something: every facility I’ve worked in has always been striving for something, but no one could quite name what it was. They couldn’t put their finger on it—until now. This is what they were missing.

I’ve worked in facilities ranging from light residential placements to the state secure system, and I’ve encountered countless kids, staff, families, and support networks along the way. After receiving CARE training, I realized it’s one of those “you don’t know what you don’t know” situations. Many of the kids arrive here from other facilities and have already seen some of the worst the system has to offer. They come in without a real understanding of what the six CARE principles could mean for them—or how those principles might completely change their experience. Even when explained, they sometimes dismiss the ideas because of how poorly they’ve been treated in the past.

What’s powerful is how even the smallest changes can make the biggest impact. Something as simple as leaving a door cracked to ease anxiety, setting up a Zoom call so a child feels less homesick, or approaching behavior with patience instead of frustration—these little moments send a clear message: we genuinely CARE.

I’ve worked alongside staff in facilities for every imaginable reason—some for the better, some for the worse. No matter their background, CARE is something everyone can benefit from. George Junior is the first facility I’ve been part of where CARE is truly implemented—not just through policies, procedures, rules, and regulations, but through real practice. Here, we’re encouraged to explore different approaches, think in alternative ways, and recognize that not every situation is cut and dry. Every child is unique and deserves to be treated that way.

As a facility, I believe we’re only scratching the surface of what CARE can accomplish. With the team we have in place, the sky is the limit. I look forward to creating my own CARE moments to share and knowing I have the support system I need to find answers, grow, and make a real difference.