Exploring the World of Social Services

Why Write About Social Services

I didn’t learn about social services in a classroom—I was introduced to it through family. Foster care and adoption weren’t abstract terms to me growing up—they were present in the lives of family — cousins, and some friend. I witnessed, from a young age, what it looked like for children to navigate new homes, new families, and new systems. And even as a child, I felt something stir in me: a warmth. A responsibility. A quiet determination to help wherever I could.

That desire didn’t come from obligation. It came naturally. It matched my personality, my empathy, my curiosity—and my belief in community as a source of comfort and connection.

So I followed it. I studied human services, communications, and policy. I pursued a path that turned instinct into intention. I joined the system, hoping to make it better. I gave it my heart, my skills — my life. I showed up — not just professionally, but emotionally. I led teams, wrote policies, supported youth, trained others. And for a long time, the spirit of community that I always loved kept me rooted.

Until burnout introduced itself.

Until fatigue became too familiar.

Until I realized that the very system I believed in wasn’t built to return the kind of care it demands. And I learned something that every helper eventually has to: boundaries — they are survival.

That’s why I’m write about social services now.

Because this work is human work. Because social workers, case managers, frontline staff—we carry stories, and we have stories. Because the families we serve are layered, complex, and worthy of more than checkboxes and cold statistics. And because so many of us are holding it all with compassion, but without room to exhale.

I write to create that room.

For those who serve and those who are served. For those trying to navigate systems, and those trying to change them. For those who’ve stayed, those who’ve left, and those who are somewhere in between.

Because I know this world. I’ve walked alongside it, worked within it, and carried its weight home.

And I believe our stories—the full stories—deserve space to rise.

Your Story Belongs Here.
If you’ve worked in social services, received support, or simply have a story to share about navigating the system—your voice matters. We welcome reflections from every perspective.
Reach out via the Connect page or email us at connect@unboxedvoices.com to share your experience, contribute a piece, or just start a conversation.