National Social Work Month Profile: Jennifer Pendergraph, MSW
VP of Case Management Services, Family Support Services
Hi, my name is Jennifer Pendergraph, and I’m proud to be a Social Work professional for over 17 years. I have been with
Family Support Services for 12 years in various roles.
As the Vice President of Case Management Services at Family Support Services, I am dedicated to leading efforts to serve families in our community through Family Preservation and Dependency Case Management services. I also strive to support our partners who work tirelessly to assist our most vulnerable families. Social work has not only allowed me to support others through challenging times but has also shaped me into a compassionate leader committed to making a difference every day.
I was inspired to pursue my master’s in social work by a deep desire to advocate for those who feel unheard and to be a source of hope during difficult times. Witnessing the transformative power of support and empowerment in people’s lives motivated me to become a social worker. What keeps me motivated is my commitment to child welfare which is driven by a deep passion for systems change.
One piece of advice I’d give to someone considering social work is to lead with empathy while setting aside personal beliefs. To truly support and empower others, you must meet them where they are, without judgment. This means listening with an open mind, respecting diverse perspectives, and maintaining professionalism even when values differ from your own. By doing so, you create a safe and supportive environment that fosters trust and growth.
I believe by addressing systemic barriers and advocating for more effective, equitable policies, we can create lasting positive impacts for vulnerable children and families. Remaining in this field allows me to not only support individual lives but also influence the larger structures that shape their experiences. I am dedicated to leading initiatives that promote better outcomes, empower communities, and ultimately transform the child welfare system into one that truly serves and uplifts every family.”
Click here to learn more about the FSS mission and how P.E.A.C.E. drives our culture.
Click here to see how you can be part of #TeamFSS.
