In the Employee Spotlight we aim to recognize a Youth Service, Inc. employee making an impact in the communities we serve. Jeneen Coles is a supervisor in the Family Empowerment Services (FES) program at Youth Service, Inc.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
My name is Jeneen Coles and I am currently a supervisor in Youth Service, Inc.’s Family Empowerment Services (FES). I am a motorcycle bike rider and love it. I also enjoy going to the gym and spending time in the park in the early morning by myself – calm and serene. I believe in self-care and do what I can to make certain I am my best for my family and those I work with.
Q: How long have you been working at YSI?
I first came to YSI in 2014 as a social worker in the foster care department. I worked with children who were in out of home placements and worked with foster parents and families. This included court attendance, school contacts and supporting children in what were not such great circumstances. When YSI ended their foster care program in 2012, I left for other opportunities. I returned to YSI in 2013 as a case manager for a prevention program called Family Empowerment Services. In 2016 I returned to school, Widener University, and completed my Master of Social Work degree. On July 22nd of this year. I applied for and was selected to be a supervisor in FES.
Q: Why do you think these programs are important?
Prevention services are very important because it provides support to families who may not have anyone to turn to or know where they can go for help and support. Prevention programs empower families to be able to better navigate the system as well as become better advocates for their family. We always want families to remain together whenever it is safe to do so.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working at YSI in this program?
I enjoy being able to empower families to get systems to work for them by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to be better advocates for themselves. Sometimes a parent or guardian just needs to know the words to use and encouragement that they can advocate for themselves and their children. I also love being able to help connect families connect with resources that will support their needs.
To learn more about Youth Service, Inc.’s Family Empowerment Services (FES) program, please contact 215-848-6200 .