August 2008 Caseworker of the Month
Shannon Sobolak
Adoption Caseworker
Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Office of Child and Family Services
Because of her endless commitment to our family, we would like to nominate Shannon Sobolak as the case worker of the month. We have worked with her on several occasions during the past 4 years. Regardless of the situation, whether it was "bad" or "good" she was there for us. Her bubbly personality always left us laughing. She was always up front and honest with us. This is a very important trait for us and we admire Shannon for this. Shannon is also a person who stops to chat regardless where she sees you. This is another trait that we admire. While Shannon carries a very heavy caseload, she always has time for us. There have even been times she has had to return telephone calls after hours. Even then she is very cheerful. Shannon has a true love for the children that she works with. At a recent adoption, she was actually in tears as she was so happy that this child had found a forever home. As a case worker, Shannon is irreplaceable and as a friend she is fantastic. Shannon you are the best!
The Smith Family
“I am an Adoption Caseworker. I have been with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Child and Family Services for 8½ years. I have worked with the Smith Family for the 8 years that I have been with the Department. The Smith’s have always had an open home and heart for a child in need. They look at children as individuals with unique strengths that need to be built upon rather than focusing on the labels they are assigned due to diagnosis and behaviors. In the course of our working relationship, a change of placement of a younger child (age 4) was made that in was in no way due to the care and abilities of the Smiths. The Smith’s were not in agreement with this decision, however after time and consideration, they were able to refocus their energy and commitment to open their homes to older children with mental and emotional special needs. This demonstrates the Smith’s ability to put the needs of children first and their strong commitment to helping others. I had the privilege of completing an adoption with the Smith family of a 15 year old boy who had been waiting for a forever family. The progress that he has made since entering their home and family has been amazing. He now has a family (including a mom, dad and numerous siblings and extended family) that provides him unconditional love while nurturing his strengths and building upon his challenges. They have always accepted him, as with all their children, as a child with unlimited potential. Working with the Smith’s has taught me tolerance and understanding. They also remind me that the love and support of family is much more important than any material possession.” – Shannon Sobolak
Read the press release.