Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Casey G.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

Please say hello to Casey. She has been employed with the CCC for the past five years and is an Eligibility Specialist serving Scott County. Casey said she loves her job because, “… it allows me to reach families that need the childcare assistance the CCC provides and guide them to additional useful resources. I give them comfort when they need it, a shoulder to cry on, and ears just to listen to them when needed. I try to go above and beyond for all of my families every single day. I just love my families in Scott County.”

Casey is married to her wonderful husband of three years, Shane. In May, to celebrate their third anniversary, they took a trip to Gatlinburg (where they spent their honeymoon). They made this trip on a motorcycle. “Thank goodness for good weather,” she said. They rode the Tail of the Dragon, which is a “tourist thing” for people who have motorcycles. It’s an 11 mile stretch of road with 318 curves. Casey declared, “It was fun and scary all at the same time!” After venturing on to Nashville and back home, the whole trip was 1400 miles.

Casey and Shane love anything outdoors. She said, “We love to hunt, mostly for deer, during firearm and archery season, but each of us would love to go turkey hunting or bear hunting someday. We do lots of fishing, out of our kayaks, in the creek near our house. We show antique tractors and farm equipment all over the states of Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. We love to go camping as well; either while we are showing our tractors, or at the horse park with family. We love anything and everything we can do outside!”

Casey is a proud wife and dotes on her husband, “He is currently a volunteer firefighter for the community of Stamping Ground and is in the process of trying to become a career firefighter in Georgetown.” She went on to tell me about the sweetest thing he ever did for her, “He spent all week writing me a poem. On Friday, when I came home, I saw the poem with hand-picked wildflowers from our own land. The poem told me to get all dolled up as he was going to pick me up, like on an actual date. We had a very nice dinner and then he took me dancing.”

Oh, but that’s not all! Casey’s love for Shane shines in what she considers her greatest achievement in her life. She said, “It may not count to some people, but it counts for me. Marrying my amazing husband has to be my greatest achievement. He is a wonderful man, husband, protector, and provider. Not only does he promise to serve and protect me, but he also promised to serve and protect an entire community that depends on him along with the rest for the Stamping Ground Volunteer Fire Dept. He rushes from our home whenever the radio sounds to save someone’s life. He comforts the loved ones of the lost after he desperately tried to save them. It is dangerous for him and absolutely terrifying for me, but it is something that he loves to do and people count on him to be there. He completes me.”

They don’t have children but, they do have a six year old Australian Shepard, who is like their child, Molly Ann (pictured above). She has a pretty amazing story that I have to share. Casey said, “Molly rescued my husband and me when she was almost a year old. When my husband went to the home, he was not expecting to rescue a dog. But, when he got there, she was chained to a fence along with four other dogs.  The only thing they had eaten was some table scraps divided between the dogs. She was shot with a BB-gun every time she barked. She was underweight, dirty, and flea infested. Shane paid for her and brought her home. She has been our baby ever since and we could not imagine life without her.”

Casey said her dad is her hero, “He is always there for me when I need anything. He took care of his family by any means necessary, but would always leave work or stop what he was working on to come to my softball games, cheer competitions, or just play with me. Dad was, and is, always a part of my life. He is strong, caring, and would give the shirt off of his back to help anyone. I strive every day to be just like him. I am who I am because of my dad. He taught me a lot of things that have come in handy for me. I can just about figure anything out mechanically and I have a passion for working on cars, trucks, tractors, or equipment. I love being able to get in there and get my hands dirty.”

Casey has learned, from life, that you should always, “Reach for the stars, but don’t forget about the ones that helped you to reach them.”

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Hygia P.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

Please say hello to Hygia (Gia). She has been an Eligibility Specialist with the CCC for the past two years. She serves the counties of Breathitt, Johnson, Knott, Magoffin, and Perry. I asked her how she came to work for the CCC. She replied, “I was looking for a job, and a friend sent a link to a job listing for an Eligibility Specialist with the CCC. I thought this was something interesting and applied. I started on my 28th birthday… it was a good birthday present.” What does she love most about her job? “I like to help families better their situations,” she replied.

Gia, is a fun, caring, and friendly person. She can be found at home, when not working, in her comfy PJ’s with her eight year old son, Zack. In her spare time she loves to catch up on all of her recorded shows. She is an avid Facebooker, Tweeter, and Pinterest user who uses social media to keep up with her friends and family. Her favorite hobbies are gardening, cooking, baking, playing with her cat Muffy, and riding motorcycles. Her least favorite thing is doing all those dishes from the cooking and baking. I think a lot of us can agree with that statement!

Gia received an AAS and AA from Hazard Community College and a BA in Criminal Justice from Eastern Kentucky University. She is an avid sports fan and is excited about the upcoming football season. Her favorite team is the New Orleans Saints. Her favorite vacation, thus far, was a week-long stay at Disney World.

I asked Gia for her best advice to parents on raising children. After sincere thought she replied, “Teach children respect, kindness, honesty, integrity, and values when they are young. It’s the parent’s responsibility to raise the children right. Raise your child right the first time because there are no second chances.” She also had advice for children in regard to understanding their parents, “Children should understand that parents do the best they can to raise their children with what they have. Parents will say no or give advice that the child is not wanting or willing to hear. Later, the child will realize it was probably the best advice.”

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Beth G.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

It’s my honor to introduce Beth, a 16 1/2 year veteran of the CCC. She is an Eligibility Specialist serving the counties of Woodford, Anderson, and Washington. Beth started her career teaching kindergarten. She then owned her own childcare center, where she met her husband and worked as director in a couple more centers. She also taught at the college level and says after that experience, “… give me little kids anytime!!” After a while, she decided that she needed a change. She still wanted to work with children and families, but in a different capacity. Along came the position with the CCC and the rest, as they say, is history.  Beth said, “What I love most about my job is the satisfaction that I get from helping families attain a better quality of life. It makes me feel good to be able to remove some of the barriers that our clients meet.” Ultimately, Beth said, “… the greatest job is the one that gives you a feeling of satisfaction; one that you look forward to every day, and offers you an opportunity to help others. One that makes you feel that you are making a difference in people’s lives. I can honestly say, I truly enjoy my job. And, although there are a few days that I would rather be on a beach somewhere, I like coming to work and feeling such a sense of accomplishment.”

When asked about her home life, Beth beamed with pride as she replied, “As of this September, I will be have been married to my husband, Gary, for 33 years. We have three children, all BOYS. Jason, 34, who served in the Army National Guard and was in Iraq for one year, is married to April. They are parents to our first grandchild, Wade, who is almost three years old, and our pride and joy! They are also expecting a baby girl, Sybil, around the middle of November. Brian is 31 and he and his wife, Sheneda, are expecting a little boy, Harrison, around the first of November. Aaron is 23 and busy working and interviewing for positions with area police departments. We are also the proud parents of a 12 year old Schnauzer, Zelda, who is the sweetest dog ever.” She said her greatest achievement thus far is, “My family, no question about it. My husband and I have raised three wonderful young men who are not only kind, but also thoughtful, and caring, and a lot of fun to be around.   As we watch our sons go out into the world as productive members of society forming relationships, becoming husbands, becoming fathers. We can be nothing but proud of the amazing individuals they have become. And, as our little family continues to grow with each addition that comes to us, we are truly blessed.”

Beth is a born and raised Kentuckian. Her father was employed with the University of KY Agriculture Department as a County Agent. Beth, her sister, father, and mother lived in Inez for a few years.  They moved to Prestonsburg, and from there to Ashland where they lived until 1980 when her dad was transferred to the big city of Lexington. It was the biggest place they had ever lived. She was terrified of all the traffic and roads going in all different directions. It took her quite a few years to get used to the hustle and bustle, but Lexington became home. Both of her parents are gone now, but they still like to visit their roots back home, from time to time. Beth says she is who she is because of two things in particular, “Number one, my parents and the morals and beliefs they instilled in me. My parents always supported me in everything. They gave me the opportunity to make my own choices and were always there with advice and support. I knew that I could always depend on them for anything. Number two, my life experiences and those who have shared them with me, whether the experience was good or bad, they played an important part in my becoming the person that I am today.”

Beth told me about one of her most favorite vacations. It’s such a tribute to friendship that I just have to share. She said, “One of my favorite vacations has to be the trip that we took to Oahu, Hawaii, to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. The thing that made this trip so very special was that our best friends, Doug and Rosemary, went with us as they were also celebrating their 25th anniversary. (Not sure how many people know this but Rosemary, from the billing department, has been my dearest, best friend for 32 years.) We spent a whole week just cruising the island in a Mustang convertible, taking in the beautiful scenery, trying some interesting foods, and returning to our little beach house to enjoy the hot tubs and a few cool and fruity beverages. There is nothing better in the world than having lifelong friends to share the good times and the bad, and believe me; we have shared lots of both!”

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Cynthia M.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

Cynthia, born in New Orleans, made her way to the great state of Kentucky 22 years ago. She has been employed with the CCC for two years as an Eligibility Specialist. She serves the counties of Logan, Todd, and Simpson. I asked what brought Cynthia to the CCC. She replied, “I worked as a Substitute Teacher in Logan County for nine years. Even though my degrees were in Early Child Education and Education, I wasn’t sure where I wanted to end up. When given the opportunity to apply with the CCC, I put a lot of thought into it. I loved working with the children at school. When I was interviewed, I knew this was going to be THE career for me.”

Cynthia was raised in Louisiana by her mom and Ralph, her stepfather who adopted her. She was recently reunited with her biological father, Clarence. When asked about her home life as a child she said, “I did not live with any of my siblings growing up, but I had an older sister who I lost last October to breast cancer. I have a younger sister, as well, who lives in Louisiana where my birth father lives. I also have an older sister, who is my mom’s biological child that she gave up for adoption, and lives in Chattanooga, TN. We were reunited 16 years ago.”

Her home life today consists of a recently single, Cynthia, and her daughter, Caitlyn Danielle, who is 22 years old. She said of her daughter, “She is the greatest gift I have ever been given!” She said the master of their house is their eight year old cat, Taz, who has been her saving grace for the past four years, since her mom’s passing.

Education has played a huge role in Cynthia’s life. When asked about the schools she attended and the degrees she earned she stated, “I attended kindergarten at Delta Heritage Academy in Buras, LA, and then transferred to Buras High School for 1st-12th grade and was the Rifle Corp Captain. I graduated in 1985. I attended Molar Beauty College in Marrero, LA, and obtained my Cosmetology Degree in 1992. In 2004, I completed my degrees of AAS in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education and AAS in Education at Hopkinsville Community College. In 2008, I completed my degrees of AA, AS, and my State Director’s License in Child Care at Hopkinsville Community College. I also completed my junior year at Murray State University for a BS in Elementary Education. Due to family issues, I decided to delay the completion of my degree. I will be returning to college in the spring at Lipscomb University in Nashville.”

Education lit a powerful passion in her, and has led to many accomplishments. She said, “My passion in life is giving back and serving others. I am a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. I have been a member since 2002. I have served as Chapter and Regional Officer. I won the 2007 International Orlowski Award.  I have served as the President of the Kentucky Regional Alumni Association for six years and am the current Kentucky Regional Liaison. I serve on the Alumni Advisory Council and Alumni Mentor Committee through Phi Theta Kappa Headquarters located in Jackson, MS. Recently, I Chartered my first Regional Alumni Association in TN and they made me the TN Regional Alumni Association Advisor. Even my vacations are actually times where I served others by attending Phi Theta Kappa conventions, conferences, and workshops, to teach others about programming, assist with events, or just fellowship.  I also serve on the Logan County Relay for Life Committee as the Sponsorship Chair. Having lost several members of my family to cancer, it is important for us to give back and help raise money to help others celebrate more birthdays!”

Obtaining such achievements takes great dedication, focus, will-power, and concentration but that’s not where it leaves off. July 17, 2013, Cynthia hit 319 pounds. It was at that point she made the decision that enough was enough and began to challenge herself to lose weight. Today, she weighs in at a slim 182 pounds. Losing 137 pounds in a years’ time, is definitely something to be proud of. She is a real go getter and inspiration to us all. Congrats on your accomplishments, Cynthia!

Cynthia’s advice on raising children is to love them, teach them, help them, and always encourage them to reach for the stars. Teach them to always have great dedication and focus on the required goals needed to help them see where they have been and where they are going.

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Melissa B.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

Introducing, Melissa (Missy); she has worked in the Child Care Assistance Program for three years and serves the counties of Whitley and McCreary, as an Eligibility Specialist. Missy said that she loves working for the CCC and working daily, with a group of people, to help others. It gives her a sense of great pride and accomplishment. She said, “I love knowing the job we do, helps families. Raising kids is NOT an easy job! It’s the most rewarding job, just not the easiest.”

It only takes an instant of looking at her pictures above, to realize that Missy is a fun, outgoing, and happy person. She has a beautiful smile that lights up everything around her. When she asked her mom to describe her using three words her mom replied, “Well, that really depends on which personality they get!” Her boyfriend of four years, Gus, agreed but added that she was always caring, giving, and willing to help others. She proudly said the same characteristics have been said of her eight year old daughter, Lily Grace.

Now, if you were like me, I saw the pictures of the animals and just went, “AWWW!” Missy, Gus, and Lily Grace live on a farm in McCreary County. Missy says that Gus is her soul mate and she is very proud of him. At work he is the Sheriff of McCreary County; at home, he is a rancher. They have six miniature donkeys, two mules, two horses, one miniature horse, three dogs (including a K-9), and one cat. She said, “There is NEVER a dull moment around our house!”

When she is not acting as a ranch hand, Missy loves photography and has plenty of beautiful scenery around her home to capture. You can see some of Missy’s photography in our Spring in Kentucky blog. She also loves to read, whenever she can find a spare moment. Janet Evanovich and James Patterson are a couple of her favorite authors. Horseback riding is also one of her favorite things to do. Living out on a farm affords her such beauty and peace, but she never imagined herself living on a farm. She said, “If someone had told me 10 years ago, that I would be living on a farm, I’d have called them CRAZY! Now? NOW, I can’t imagine it being any different.”

Have you ever been listening to someone talk when suddenly a wave of emotion comes over them? That emotion can be felt in each word. You feel their pain even though its hidden by a smile. Your heart goes out to them. I had that experience with Missy. I just have to say, what a strong woman she is. I asked her to what she attributed her being who she is today and her only hesitation came from pain, still fresh in her heart. On June 15, 2014, Father’s Day, she lost her father in a motorcycle wreck. She said, “My Dad built his own Harley, a 1976 Shovelhead, and he was an avid rider my entire life. So, the irony that this is how he was taken has not been lost. So, I cry… a lot lately. He was, of course, the BEST MAN EVER.” Spoken like a true daddy’s girl. I’m certain he is very proud of her and her brother. She went on to say, “He was not my biological father. He and my mom were together since I was 12. He married my mom, who had two kids. This was a man who had never been married and had no kids of his own. God knew exactly what he was doing when he gave us Daddy. So, as much as I cry these days, I truly know how very blessed we have been for the last 30 years to have him in our lives. He was loved by so very many people. We couldn’t have asked for a  better husband to our mom, a better dad for my brother and me, or a better papaw to Lily Grace.” What a beautiful tribute to her parents. A lesson for us all, cherish your parents, because they are only with us for a short time in our span of life.

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Brittany L.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

This week I introduce Brittany, from the North region of the CCC. Brittany is an Eligibility Specialist covering the counties of Boyd, Greenup, and Lawrence. She has been with the CCC for a year and a half. What is Brittany’s motivation for coming to work every day? She said, “Everything! I love interacting with the public, as well as being able to help people out and give them a little bit of relief with their finances. We don’t just give out daycare assistance, we give out a little peace of mind by helping them know that they are going to be able to get up and go to work the next morning without having to worry about their children. We provide people with the opportunity to seek a safe environment for their children and alleviate some of the expenses associated with the cost of daycare so they can work to support their family.  I love seeing people smile when I am able to help make their lives a little easier. I also love my work family! Everyone that I have met in the CCC has been very nice and helpful! I love every opportunity that allows us to get together. I am very grateful for my job, and being able to be a part of the CCC family!  I look forward to the future!” To sum up her love of her job she said, “Ultimately, the greatest job to have, is the one that I am fortunate enough to have!”

Sometimes, through tragedy and heartbreak, we realize the smallest miracles in our lives. That can be said of Brittany. I asked about her home life and family. She shared this, “I am married to my high school sweetheart. We have been together since I was 14. We have had four children, Tyson 7, Jaxon 5, and Krymson 2. We also had a son Izaiah, who would have been eight this year; however, he passed away after 23 days due to being a premature baby. He is my beautiful angel baby! If I wasn’t working in CCAP I would love to be working as a NICU nurse just to be able to hold those precious miracles.”

Brittany grew up in Greenup County. She lived with her parents and older sister. She and her best friend, Shanna, loved to go to football games, movies, parties, concerts, and etc. She said, “I am lucky to say, she is still my best friend this very day.”

In her spare time, you can find Brittany attending church every Wednesday and Sunday! She said she is, “… proud to say I am a Christian.” She is also proud to say, “I am a football and baseball mom who hopes to one day say that I am also a cheerleading mom,” she laughed. Her family enjoys sports and she said, “My family and I are Alabama football fans. That’s actually where my daughter’s name came from, it’s just spelled differently, Krymson.”

Her great-grandmother was a woman of God and was always so loving and caring. Brittany said, “She was always teaching us about life and what truly matters,” and because of those traits, Brittany says that her great-grandmother is her hero. What a truly special relationship.

As a mother of three, I had to ask her if she had any parenting advice. She answered, “Enjoy every moment, because we never know what tomorrow holds. Always pay attention to your children as well as listen! Remember that children are always listening to you, even when you don’t think they are, so make sure you’re always setting a good example. Give out lots of hugs and kisses and remember that, “Each day, we make a deposit into the memory banks of our children!”

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Jamie L.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

This week I introduce Jamie, a Claims Specialist, who has been with the CCC for the past five years. Jamie is the twin sister of Amie, who also works for the CCC. What career path led her to the field of child care assistance? She responded, “I was working as a pharmacy tech before I started with the agency. I wanted a job that I could work 8-4:30, so I could be home with my daughter. I applied for the job in 2009 and served Rowan, Morgan, Menifee, Elliot, and Carter Counties as an Eligibility Specialist. In May 2013, I started working as a Claims Specialist at Central Office.”

I asked her what she loved about her job to which she replied, “Everything!! I have never had a job until this one that I truly loved. I am proud to say that I work for the CCC. This place is such a great place. It’s warm, friendly, and you know that you are cared for.” She went on to say, “I love helping people because it is such a great feeling knowing that something that you have done made someone’s day. Ultimately, the greatest job to have is one that you love; one that you are proud to say where you work and don’t dread coming into work.”

Jamie lives with her daughter, Sarah, her boyfriend, Ken, and his two children, Chloe and Dalton, on weekends. They have three cats who she described, “My first pet is Emma, who I nicknamed Lou Lou. I actually got her when I lived in Hawaii. She loves to steal food: no matter what it is you are eating. She is a sweet cat who loves eating treats and chasing balls. I also have, Kallie and Annie, who came from Hawaii as well. Kallie is a shy kitty and Annie is a feisty cat who will love you then turn and bite you the very next minute.”

She said, “My greatest achievement is being the mom to such an awesome child. She is so sweet, kind, funny, and smart. I love waking up every day knowing that I have someone to love with my whole heart and soul.” She said Sarah makes her laugh when she acts goofy and is the funniest person she knows. Jamie has done something special with her daughter and mother for the past two years and I think that it is so cool, to share such a special bond. She said, “I have gone on vacation with my mom and Sarah the past couple years. Last year was Florida, and this year was Gatlinburg. I love being able to spend time with my mom and daughter. Life gets too busy sometimes and it’s nice to take a break from it all with people you hold so dear.”

Jamie is a lover of music and said, “Pretty much all the bands I listen to help me when I feel gloomy. The music that helps me get through the day is Folk Pop. Some bands I listen too are Ingrid Michaleson, Jamestown Revival, Mumford and Sons, The Lumineers, Scars on 45, and The Wind and the Wave.” She uses Twitter to tell people about all the awesome bands and new songs they have out. Where does she get her love of bands? It possibly comes from the years she and her best friend, Peggy, spent in band and color guard. She and Peggy spent many weekends at competitions and had a blast doing it and are still friends to this day.

She also loves UK basketball and cheering for the Indianapolis Colts. She shared, “My stepdad, who passed away eight years ago, was a huge fan, so I support the Colts in his honor.” She attributes who she is today to the love and support she received from her parents. She said, “I think they did all they could do to make sure we had a good life.” Her advice to parents would be, “Every child is different and they don’t come with manuals. My advice is to teach them manners; teach them to love, and to help others.” Love and charity begins at home; that’s a great piece of advice.

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Amie C.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

After interviewing Amie, I can assure you the picture above represents her very well. Amie, a Claims Specialist serving all of Kentucky, has been employed by the CCC since July 1, 2009. She said she got her start in child care assistance when a former coworker told her of an opening while she was working for a pallet company and a home improvement store. She said, “I quit my job at the pallet company, and eventually quit my other part-time job to work for CCAP and another social services organization part time. I had the opportunity to move to Covington, in 2009, and work in the Kenton County office. I moved up there, only knowing a handful of people but, decided I needed a fresh start. I lived there for a year and a half, and then moved down to Lexington to work at our central office.”

When asked about her job she replied, “The one thing I love about my job, well, is really everything! I like how the CCC is like a family. We are a huge family now; we just keep growing! I like how management takes an interest in your personal life, asks how you and your family are doing, and they know you by name. We aren’t just another employee to them. They care about our well-being and it shows every day. If I weren’t working in CCAP, I would want to be a speech pathologist. I have always wanted to learn and teach sign language.”

Amie has a twin sister, Jamie, who is also employed with the CCC. She told me a funny story about when they were in middle school that I just have to share. “We were in 7th grade, I think. Everyone had just gotten their yearbooks and I wanted to see both of our pictures. Well… whoever worked on the yearbook that year, evidently couldn’t tell us apart, and they used the same picture for both of us!” She said there are many more funny stories like that!

Amie grew up in Paris, KY. Her family moved to Mt. Sterling, KY when she was 10 years old, then moved to Owingsville, KY when she was 14. She graduated from Bath County High School in 1997 then graduated from Morehead State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications. She was trying to fulfill her dream of becoming a radio DJ. She was a member of the Delta Zeta sorority and made many friends who she still remains in contact with today.

When Amie is not working, you can usually find her at home running around in gym shorts, T-shirt, and flip flops. She stated she absolutely hates closed toe shoes. She lives with her girlfriend, also named Amy, and they spend quality time traveling, camping, attending concerts, and yes, even meeting celebrities such as Wynonna Judd, Dierks Bentley, Lady Antebellum, Kelly Clarkson, and Sophia Bush. Amie is an avid sports enthusiast supporting the UK Wildcats and the Cincinnati Bengals. She laughed when she said, “I usually have no clue what is going on, but I do like to cheer for the teams.”

Amie has a funny, sweet, and understanding personality; she contributes her mother with being who she has become at this point in her life. She says her mom has, “…taught me strength, courage, and how to stay strong during any situation.” Amie has two sisters, two brothers, three nephews, one niece and another niece on the way. Since she doesn’t plan to have children of her own, she plans on doing everything she can to spoil those nieces and nephews.

I asked about her most favorite vacation. She replied, “I went to Myrtle Beach this past May for my girlfriend’s 40th birthday; it was probably one of the most relaxing vacations ever. We had an ocean front view and the beach wasn’t very crowded.  It was just nice to get away for a week.” The picture above is from that vacation. As you can see, she had a great time. We should all just get away once in a while. Wouldn’t that be so relaxing?

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Natasha H.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

Meet Natasha, the person working behind the Eligibility Specialist desk for the past year; serving the counties of Bell, Harlan, and Letcher. She said, “When I got hired on with the CCC, I went into training not having much of a clue what the job consisted of. I just knew it was something I wanted to give a try. I had seen the job posted on our local job search page and I applied. I am very thankful I did. I love my job. I love being able to be a help to families. I once heard that if you love your job, you will never work a day in your life. I feel like that’s where I am with the Child Care Council. I LOVE MY JOB!!”

Natasha has a beautiful, caring, and nurturing soul. I was in awe of her as she told me her life’s story. She is very family oriented and comes from a big family on her mom’s side. Her Mom has three sisters and three brothers who all have kids. When they all get together, which happens very often, “… there is never a dull moment”. She has four little cousins ages 2-7 that keep her on her toes along with her two nieces, Addison (5), and Elizabeth (2), and nephew Henry who is an infant.

She graduated high school and enrolled in Southeast Community College where she graduated in 2009 with an Associate’s Degree in Arts as well as an Associate’s Degree in Science. She said, “Probably one of the most proud moments of my life, was walking across that stage, getting my diploma. I felt like for once, I accomplished something that most don’t get to”.

When she graduated high school, she moved in with her Mamaw. After the passing of her grandfather, her Mamaw needed someone to help her out and Natasha quickly filled that role. She said, “I still live with her and take care of her. We had a scare in March and thought we were going to lose her, but the Lord spared her, and let us keep her a while longer. She and I are close; it’s like having two moms.”

Natasha says she is who she is, “…because growing up, I watched people I care about struggle. I grew up not knowing my biological dad. Never in my life have I met him and I’m 26 now. I know who he is, and I know his family. But, he lives in Chicago and never made an attempt to meet me until I was older. I decided not to meet him. Sometimes, I think it’s something I may want to do now that I am grown. But… I have mixed feelings about it. I have a step-dad, who has been in my life since I was a newborn. Growing up, I felt different because of that. It made me want to push myself so that when people would look at me, they couldn’t blame my life on my circumstances. I have a father who may not be blood related but he sure filled the father role. My Mom has always been there for me and did a very good job providing for me growing up. She fulfilled all of my needs, and most of my wants.”

When not at work what does Natasha do? She said she absolutely loves to cook and she gets a lot of her ideas from Pinterest. She is a Pinterest addict. I think many of us can relate to that. She also takes every opportunity she can to experience that care-free feeling in life. She loves the ocean and says, “There isn’t anything like the sand beneath your feet and the smell of salt water in the air”.

She said, “I would rather have a few best friends rather than lots of friends. There is a huge difference in my opinion. In fact, we are planning a get together soon. There isn’t anything like going to one of our houses after church, having some good food, and enjoying some night swimming. We act like kids when we are together and that care-free feeling is the best feeling in the world. It’s like for a couple hours… all of life’s problems just melt away.

Natasha loves children. She told me of a time when, after college, she got to go back to Wallin Elementary, her childhood school, as a substitute teacher. She said, “I learned, while working with kids, that some of them have a rough home life. I always hugged my school babies because most kids went without that at home. Hugs make kids feel safe; I learned that real fast. I would always take extra snacks to school for those who didn’t have a snack at recess. One thing I learned about teaching was that it wasn’t about the pay; it is about making a difference in those kids’ lives. When I’m around children, I encourage them. The sky is the limit. Go for what you want in life.”

I want to close this interview with a very powerful and touching quote from Natasha. I hope it touches your heart as much as it did mine. “Life is better when you are laughing. Make the best of what you have and be thankful… because, there are some that would be pleased with just a little of what you and I have.”

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Belinda D.

Robin @ Kids Matter

“I’m compassionate and giving, but not always patient,” was Belinda’s reply when asked what she most wants people to know about her.  Meet, Belinda, Eligibility Specialist for Henderson, Union, and Webster counties.  She has been working in the CCAP program since 2008.  She said, “I left the corporate world to get into a field where I could help my community.  I wanted to use what I’d learned in college and my previous work, to give something back.”  However, her work has also given her value in life.  She said, “I’ve met a lot of wonderful people who share their lives with me.  I get something from them, even from a few minutes in my office, and I hope that I’m giving something back to them.” What a positive way to look at work!

As a child, Belinda said one of the many things she got in trouble for, was protecting her brother and sister, who were three and five years younger than her.  They often got picked on, and she wound up fighting to protect them.  She said, “Sometimes I think my brother would do something to get picked on, on purpose, just so I would fight.”  How funny!   As a teen, her extra-curricular activities were singing in choir and riding motorcycles.  Belinda said, “We had strict rules, and were not allowed to go far from home.  I had a moped, which I rode up and down the road at 35 MPH (the fastest it would chug) doing tricks like standing on the seat, no hands, and etc.”  I asked for a re-enactment, but sadly she no longer has a moped.  Throughout school, Belinda received honors for having high grades and perfect attendance. 

Her college career started in 2006, after her second oldest child finished high school, which was a 25 year difference between her going to high school and college.  Belinda received a BA in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management.  Other than her career skills, she said she learned that, “no matter how much you attend school or take classes, there is always more you can learn.  And, the more you want to learn, the happier you will be.  I’m still a strong believer in continued education.”

Belinda said, “I live in a four generation household with a 10 generation cat farm. “ She and her husband, Gary, have been married for almost 18 years.  They have six children and are expecting their 14^th grandchild in January.  To add some spice to the mix, Belinda’s father-in-law, Jerry, a retired Navy veteran, has recently moved in with them.  (Plus they have 8 cats, 3 dogs, and a rabbit.) Wow, she’s a busy woman!  I asked if she has any regrets about how she’s lived her life.  Belinda said, “There was a period of time when I pulled away from family.  I wouldn’t do that if I could relive that time.  Family is only there for a limited time.  Separation causes you to miss that and lose out on lessons you would have learned.  People need guidance and help!”

Gary and Belinda met when she was working as a waitress.  He worked for the restaurant owner’s husband and came in to the restaurant for lunch every day.  She said it was love at first sight for her.  They got married at a small country church and her oldest son, “gave her away”.  Belinda told of the special ways Gary shows her that she’s loved.  “…he does little things for me all the time.  Not grandiose gifts or actions, he’s not into those big romantic gestures!  It’s in the small things, like buying popcorn for me just because he knows that I like it. He does things like that for me almost every day.”  How sweet! 

Belinda told a funny story, “I was driving home with my three year old grandson, Bubba, in my husband’s old junky truck.  I started hearing a clicking noise and I couldn’t figure out where it was coming from.  When I slowed down, it stopped, and when I started moving again, the noise started too.  I thought something serious was wrong, so I pulled over on the side of the road.  I asked Bubba if he heard it and he said yes, but didn’t know where the sound was coming from either. So, this slowing down and speeding up lasted for about 15 minutes. Turns out, it was Bubba making the noise all along.  He was playing with me.”  Bubba is a character.  Belinda said Bubba is probably her biggest fan. “He often tells me that I am the best Nana ever… we have so many good times together.”

How will people remember her later? “I like to think that I’m leaving footprints for others to follow; teaching and helping people.  Always remember that even in your darkest moment there is laughter.  I love to laugh and believe that there is great humor in life. Without it, it’s pretty dreary out there.”  So, some good advice… remember to laugh, and as Belinda has told me several times, it’s especially important to remember to laugh at yourself!

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Shade C.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

For this week’s meet and greet, I bring to you a wonderful guy who has an absolutely great personality. Please meet Shade. (I just love that name!) He is a newbie to the CCC, having been with us for less than a year. He is an Eligibility Specialist serving the counties of Carter, Elliot, Lewis, Menifee, Morgan, and Rowan.

On March 22, 2014, Shade had the greatest achievement of his life, so far. What was that momentous occasion? He married the love of his life, Kala, and what a beautiful bride she is. You can just feel their happiness in the picture above. They have a short haired gray cat, with a few specs of pink on her nose, named Dulce. When I asked about his favorite vacation, I could feel the joy of the memory in his words. “My favorite vacation would be my honeymoon! My wife and I went to New Orleans; great culture, fun activities, and amazing food. I recommend it to everyone, at least once”. Shade is the cook of the home and I love the fact that he likes to do theme nights with the meals. They also have a weekly date night outing. Now, that is sweet.

Shade’s hobbies include, “… reading books (I don’t discriminate, I love all books equally… well except for romance novels. Irony.) I also write every morning”. As a boy, living in Louisa, KY, he grew up in a home with two sisters and his mother. His grandparents were also a huge part of his life, filling in while his mom went to college to become a teacher. Louisa, in Lawrence County, “… is a small town in Eastern KY, so far east, that we’re practically in West Virginia. As a kid there wasn’t a whole lot to do,” he said. So, what’s a kid do when there isn’t much to do? Shade and his cousin, Curtis, spent many an hour climbing and jumping from tree to tree. He said, “… looking back, not the smartest decision I’ve made. This could also explain why I had so many broken bones”.

I asked if he had someone from his childhood that he would like to send a message to and if so, who would it be and why? I got a great kick out of his response, and I think a lot of us wish the same. He said, “Myself, and the message would be… ‘Invest in Google!’ Joking. In truth, my Art Teacher, Mrs. Thornsburry. The message would be ‘thank you!’ She was a teacher of strong conviction and didn’t let me get by with only half doing my work.”

Shade graduated from Morehead State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theater. So, how does a man with those credentials come to work for a child care assistance program? That’s an interesting story and it attests to the character and personality of this young man. He said, “In all honesty, I fell into it. I was volunteering for a program back in college called Theater Diversion. This is a program to help troubled teens get a second chance, without having to go to court. Instead, using theatre, we taught them creative ways to express themselves instead of the destructive ones that got them sent to us. To say the kids were resistant would be an understatement. At first, I thought about walking away. However, I learned long ago, anything worth something involves time and persistence. The same can be said for my time volunteering for that program. It was rough at first, but in the end, the kids performed a show for their parents and teachers, who had mostly just written them off as trouble makers. It was nice to see the change in their expressions toward the children.” It was that caring for children attitude that compelled him to join the child care assistance program. He knows, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that parents need to know their child is well taken care of in their absence.

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Angela S.

Robin @ Kids Matter

Angela is originally from Huntington, West Virginia.  Her sister, who lives in Lexington, invited Angela to come to Kentucky for a life change.  She came, liked it, and stayed.  And, we are glad she did! Angela’s background, before coming to the CCC, was working in human resources.  She loved to interview, train, and teach employees.  A lot of her background in West Virginia was in the education field.  She said, “I love talking to people and interacting.  I am a nurturer.  I get that from my mom.  She taught me to love to make people feel better and to diffuse problems. “Angela came to the CCC five years ago, and has worked in several departments, including the call center where she now works.  She said she really looks forward to the program opening to new clients again, because the program does so much good for families!

The most influential person to Angela, as she was growing up, was her mother.  She said, “Mom was the most generous, loving, caring person I know.  She was a stay at home mom, who didn’t work until all her children were in high school.  She was always accessible.  When I lost my dad and brother, Mom was very strong through it all.  She’s my heart.”

As a teen, Angela was kind of a loner.  She was very family oriented and loved to spend her free time reading, which is still one of her favorite hobbies.  (Along with her two puppies: Sugar, a Chihuahua/Terrier mix, and Princess, a 6 week old Lab.)  Angela said, “I’m in a circle, and they are the world circled around me.  We learned to be each other’s best friends.  I think if more people would do this; the world would be a better place.  It’s important to know that no matter what, your family will always be in your corner.”  To her, family means faithfulness, love, generosity, and wholeness.

Angela has been married to Wesley for eight years.  She said that he’s her rock and her safe place when the world gets too hard.  They have seven children, and seven grandchildren.  It looks like seven is their lucky number!  The person Angela said she admires the most, is her daughter, Chant’e.  Chant’e was paralyzed from the waist down in a car accident a few years ago.  Doctors had expected her to be paralyzed from the neck down, but Chant’e is a fighter and worked very hard in her recovery.  She now has her own apartment and continues to work hard and thrive.  What an inspiration! When I asked Angela about the most beautiful thing she’d ever seen, her reply was, “… my daughter opening her eyes when they rolled her into ICU after the accident.  A tear fell down her cheek when I told her she would be ok.  The Lord was with her.” 

Her greatest influence on her children, “… they say that I am God fearing, very strong, kind, generous to a fault, and very loving.  I hope that I’ve shown them that they can be too!”  Raising her children to be the successful, respectful parents and contributors to society that they are, is her greatest accomplishment.  Angela said, “… they are awesome people, and I’m not saying that just because they are mine.  I’ve done a good job with the help of the Lord.”

Her parting advice to us all, “… always be kind, generous, and loving.  It does pay!”

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Rodney (husband), Kennedy (granddaughter), Nick (son), Kaylyn (daughter) at

UK Pharmacy School White Coat Graduation

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Melissa W.

Belinda @ Kids Matter

I think most people will agree that there are days when we just need a good laugh, right? I have to say, the day I interviewed Melissa was one of those days for me and man, did she make me laugh. I hope you enjoy getting to know her as much I did. She truly is an amazing person, with a delightful sense of humor and wonderful caring nature. Please allow me to introduce Melissa, a 16 year veteran of the CCC serving the counties of Boyle and Mercer as an ES. Melissa loves her job because, “I love helping people… it simply makes me feel good to know I am able to make someone else’s life better.”

Melissa, born in Chicago, moved to Caney, KY in 1976. Melissa is one of five children. She and her siblings blazed trails throughout the mountains around her home, “… playing every game from hide-n-seek to cops-n-robbers”. Melissa attributes becoming a hiking aficionado to those precious times with her siblings spent hiking the four beautiful mountain tops surrounding their home.

Hiking is a huge part of Melissa’s life and, acting as a contagion, has spread rampant through her household with the exception of her husband who she says, “… is like hiking with an old bear”. She and her “old bear” plan to go on a hiking adventure with another couple at Yosemite National Park in California. (By the time this posts, she will have already made the trip so, be sure and ask for pictures. It has to be gorgeous there!)

Melissa’s family consists of her husband, Rodney, to whom she has been married 22 wonderful years. Her son, Nicholas, who just finished his first year at the UK School of Pharmacy, and his daughter, Kennedy, who is four and is the, “new little sunshine” in their family. Melissa’s daughter, Kaylyn, just finished her second year of undergrad at SEU in Florida. Melissa said she always called her daughter “my sunshine” so, it’s no wonder she loves it in Florida. Kassidy, Nick’s fiancé, is also a beloved member of the family. They also have a 12 year old dog named Andy, who is the protector of the family.

While each of the members of the household goes about their busy schedules every day, they also have an alternate life as superheroes. What, you say? You read correctly. I often ask interviewee’s if they were a superhero, who it would be, what powers would they have, and why. Melissa took this question to a whole new level and I was absolutely delighted with her response. “If you didn’t know, I am already a superhero. I am Lunar Woman. My husband is Solar Man. My daughter is Techno girl. My son is Aqua Man. Now, let me explain. Each character emerged from my mouth one night while I was quite agitated at my husband for leaving the lights on all over the house! He loves all the Marvel Comics and movies about superheroes and it, like hiking, rubbed off on all of the rest of the family. I asked him why he constantly leaves the light on in every room of the house, but then I answered my own question. I said, ‘I know, you are Solar Man and you derive all of your power from the sun (or artificial lighting). I then must be Lunar Woman, as I have to keep Solar Man from gaining too much power as that would make him impossible to live with’. At this point I was on a roll, so I brought our children into it. ‘My son, Nick, is Aqua Man, as he must get his power from the extremely long showers he takes. My daughter is Techno Girl, who gets her power from technology (she had over 13,000 texts on her phone, a constant source of irritation)’. We are a family of superheroes who gain our power first through Jesus Christ, who strengthens us, and then through the love, laughter and tears we have shared as a family. Our greatest contribution is the example we set for others, something I have always told my children.”

Melissa’s very favorite food is watermelon, which she says she eats every single day and her husband is the one that cuts it up for her. Now, that’s love and I’m thinking Lunar Woman is a much better superhero name than Watermelon Girl. Her favorite get you up and going song is by Jesus Culture and is called, “Happy Day”. She graduated from Berea College with a degree in Child Development. She contributes her success in life to her father whom she says, “… showed me what true love and sacrifice look like by watching him walk out his faith in Christ every day of his simple, yet complicated life. I have never met a more content man who has so little possessions. I hope to be like him one day. I am so thankful to have him in my life and every time I go visit, I am humbled by the fingerprints on all of our pictures from him putting his hands on the frames each night and praying for us all.”

“Family, is the people God places around you to challenge you daily to be better; to know you like no one else does and to love you in spite of yourself. You take family with you wherever you go. Family is not a bunch of independent people doing their own thing but rather an interwoven group of individuals with personal strengths and struggles that help and are helped by each other making an even stronger more beautiful tapestry in the end.”  Her advice to families everywhere, “… build the foundation strong while you are young and root your children deep in Christ so that when the storms come, you will be able to weather them together. The soccer games and dance classes will not hold you together, but all the prayers will.”

Meet the Child Care Council Staff

Introducing Sherry B.

Robin @ Kids Matter

Sherry is from Russell Springs, Kentucky.  She was born, raised, and continues to live there.  As a child, she said, she was so bashful that she would hide behind curtains and doors when company came.  Those of you, who know Sherry, can easily see that she’s changed a lot in that area.  Sherry is now very outgoing and friendly.  She rarely meets a stranger, and always has a friendly smile and greeting.   She said, “I always try to have a positive outlook.  Life is hard enough as it is, if you’re grumpy it’s just that much worse.”  Very true, being grumpy doesn’t help anything!  

Her earliest memory is from the age of two.  Her great-great grandmother was ill so, her family went to visit her. She was later able to tell who was there and what they were wearing.  Sherry was not in trouble much as a child, but she had a very inquisitive mind.  She was always questioning things and asking why.  She said she got payback for this in the form of her daughter, who is just like her.

Sherry is on her 16^th year working for the Child Care Assistance Program.  She said she has seen a lot of changes during that time.  She said, “I enjoy working with people and always wanted to make a difference in people’s lives.  When the clients come back and tell you how much it helped them, it really makes you feel good and shows your success.”  Before coming to CCAP, Sherry worked in sewing factories for several years.  She said she still likes to sew and make things like curtains, cushions, and etc. when she has time.  In her spare time, she also loves to read thrillers and watch old movies.

March 27^th was Sherry and Wayne’s 32^nd wedding anniversary.  They have one daughter, two canine babies, and two grandpuppies.  Sherry said, “…marriage and being a mother; those two things are for me, what life really is. Family means everything to me. I’ve learned that it’s not just blood relation, but also people who come into your life and are there through thick and thin.  You may not always agree on everything, but you do support and cherish them all“.

Sherry said, “My most important influence on my daughter was in making sure she has a strong foundation; teaching her the difference between right and wrong morally. We tried to give her a sense of belonging and the tools she needs to make the right decisions, to know where to go when she needs help, and that her church family is there to give love and support when no one else is.”

In talking about significant life events, Sherry said the most amazing event was the birth of her daughter.  It changed her life in such a wonderful and beautiful way, and brought a lot of joy to her life.  The hardest event in her life has been the illness of her husband, Wayne.  It changed their lives very dramatically.  She said, “He was never a quitter. There were times we struggled, met hardships, and worked through problems together.  He’s my rock.”  She said it’s hard now to make decisions on her own, but it has led her to pray a lot and come closer to her family and her church family.  She is amazed by how everyone has stepped up and helped them out in so many ways, even down to just having someone to talk to.  What an amazing support network.  It’s evident that neither Wayne nor Sherry are quitters!

I asked Sherry about an act of human kindness… if she had witnessed any that stand out to her.  Her immediate reply was, “This last year, in itself, has been an act of kindness toward us.  I don’t even know where to start…the amount of cards and prayers is amazing.  We have a prayer chain through 13 states praying for us.  We received cards from churches everywhere and financial support from people we don’t even know.  It has shown me that though we get down and think that the world is in bad shape, there are a lot of good people out there!”

Sherry said she sees her future, “...still in CCAP, working on Wayne’s recovery, with at least one grandchild, and just living life and enjoying it. “  Her advice to us is, “… you can find negatives everywhere.  Look for the positives.  Life is not easy.  You kind of get out of it what you put into it“.  I really looked forward to doing this interview with Sherry.  Having witnessed only a small part of what she has gone through over the last couple of years, and how she handled it, I really admire her for her strength, love, and positive outlook on life.  So, thanks Sherry, for sharing with and inspiring us.