Interviewed By: Dionna Estrada

 She works with children who are low income.  The local Wapato Community  Children who are immigrants or parents that are.  Native American children.  Children who are victims of domestic violence.  Teens that are in difficult situations  Gang prevention

Not only does Carman work with the children of the community but she also works with the families. “Often times when working with the youth you have to understand that sometimes you have to help the families.” Carman volunteers to meet with a womens group once a month, where she informs them of local agency that can help them.

In the community of Wapato she believes that lack of education and resources have a huge impacted on the abuse and neglect. She feels that most families are fearful of asking for help. She feels as though most abusive behavior is a learned behavior. Through generation from generation because it was acceptable. Now that children are being seen a lot more by teachers and community members, there is more notice. “Neglect is more hard to prove, but its here in our community!” Most of the time its harder to prove.

Carman’s favorite thing about working with the children at the Campbell Farm through her outreach program is being able to feed the children a nutrition meal. “I remember as a child not having anything to eat and wondering how I was going to feed all six of my sisters,” she express her self with tears in her eyes. Carman is thankful that she is now in a place where she can help youth just like herself.

“Its tuff sending them home, especially when you know that it’s the week and they might not eat or they might not have parents home waiting for them.” Carman shares that often times some of the children in her program are the oldest and have to care for their younger siblings.

Carman believes that to be a good social worker in your community you should know your community. She thinks that it essential to understand the youth and families you serve. Its is important to be versed in cultures and their history. Carman feels that is why she is so successful with the families in this community.

After the interview, I was more aware of how important it is to understand the community you want work with.