In this episode of In Case You Forget, Jami sits down with LaQuisha White, Director of Foster Care at WinShape Homes, to discuss how frontline workers can meaningfully influence their agency’s culture—even when they feel they lack authority. Having served as both a therapist and a leader, LaQuisha offers a perspective rooted in “open hands” leadership. They explore the reality that caseworkers are the primary influencers of culture because they are the “boots on the ground” representing the agency in homes and courtrooms. LaQuisha provides practical guidance for navigating the “winding road” of reunification and offers specific advice for workers who don’t feel supported by their supervisors. The conversation serves as a powerful reminder that while the work is generational and heavy, the individual relationship between a worker and a child is life-changing work that matters regardless of the final outcome.
About the Guest
LaQuisha White is the Director of Foster Care at WinShape Homes, where she leads program operations and partners with churches to support families through a trauma-informed approach. With a background as a therapist for children in therapeutic foster care and a variety of leadership roles in mental health and adoption, she is known for her steady leadership and passion for strengthening systems while keeping frontline workers at the center.
- Understanding that frontline workers are the biggest influencers of culture because they are the face of the agency to the community.
- Moving beyond an “open door” policy to an “open hands and open heart” posture as a leader.
- How to speak about biological families and children as “image-bearers” rather than just case files.
- Practical steps for workers who feel unsupported: Finding your “why” and identifying external support systems.
- Redefining self-care as a professional responsibility, including “micro-moments” of reflection and setting firm communication boundaries.
- Encouragement for new workers: You are changing a child’s life simply by being a supportive, consistent presence in their story.
Resources + Links
Learn more about The Forgotten Initiative
Follow TFI on Instagram
Check out WinShape Homes
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