Learn about the transformative power of cultural responsiveness and reshape your understanding of how to apply this in your social work practice. 

In this episode of the Academy i3 podcast, Charlie Rodnuson is joined by Wanjiru Golly, Lisa Gilbert, and Roger De Leon Jr. to discuss culturally responsive services. The discussion explores the lifelong journey of understanding one's own culture and what that means for our interactions with others. Through personal anecdotes, the guests illustrate how cultural responsiveness can be integrated into social services to better serve diverse communities. Key themes include the importance of self-reflection, continuous learning, and effective communication in creating an inclusive environment.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

01:49 - Cultural Responsiveness Defined

04:33 - Overview of Cultural Responsiveness Academy

11:47 - Personal Experiences with Cultural Responsiveness

21:42 - Transitioning from Personal to Professional Growth

28:42 - The Power of Constant Learning

30:46 - Facilitation Over Training

33:00 - Modeling Cultural Responsiveness

35:36 - Sharing Personal Biases

40:04 - Navigating Difficult Conversations

48:18 - Final Takeaways 

Learn about our guests: 

• Dr. Wanjiru Golly, originally from Kenya, immigrated to San Diego in 1993. She holds a BA in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Guelph, Canada, and an MA and PhD in Psychology from United States International University, San Diego. After working in HR at Pepsi Bottling Group, she transitioned to the nonprofit sector in 2002, focusing on refugee resettlement and community building. She has held various roles, including Program Director at Alliance for African Assistance and Community Building Coordinator at Community Housing Works. Since 2016, Dr. Golly has been the Program Manager for the Cultural Responsiveness Academy at the Academy for Professional Excellence, where she develops training for public child welfare and behavioral health staff.

• Lisa Gilbert earned her BS in Psychology with a minor in Addictive Disorders from National University in 2001. She began working with preschool children in 1984 and shifted her focus to at-risk adolescents in 1996, working at Hillcrest Receiving Home and later Polinsky Children’s Center. She also worked part-time at UCSD Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services. Currently, Lisa is a Senior Protective Services Worker in Residential Services, with 17 years of experience at the Department of Health and Human Services. She developed the AWOL/Sexual Exploitation Specialist position for teens involved in human trafficking. Additionally, she leads a Foster Youth Mentor Ministry through her church, coordinating efforts with County staff.

• Roger De Leon Jr. is a dedicated father, grandfather, and husband of 22 years. He is a minister and advocate for children and families, working as an independent contracting instructor for various academies, including UC Davis and San Diego State University, where he delivers state-mandated trainings on child welfare and fatherhood engagement. Previously, he was a Parent Partner with Riverside County’s Children Services Division, helping families navigate the system. De Leon serves on several advisory committees and collaborates with organizations like Casey Family Programs. He is also active in his community as an Assistant/Youth Minister.

  
  

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