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Stephanie Salinas joined Presbyterian Children's Homes and Services (PCHAS) as Village Life Coordinator & T3C* Specialist in July. She took over when Phyllis Carlson, a beloved member of The Village team, retired. We want to introduce you to Stephanie and share her vision for The Foster Care Village in Itasca, Texas.
What led you to The Foster Care Village?
Stephanie's connection to PCHAS runs deep. Growing up in Itasca, she has lifelong ties to the community. "My grandmother was the cook here in the '60s and '70s," she shares. "I have vivid memories growing up here. I took swimming lessons at the pool and grew up in Itasca ISD, maintaining friendships with people who also grew up here at The Village."
Her professional journey with PCHAS began in the late '90s. She worked as a case worker for children in foster care. Back then, the campus was a children's home. Later, it became a group home, and now it's The Foster Care Village.
"There's always been a path leading me toward working at The Foster Care Village," Stephanie reflects.
As a teacher for Itasca ISD, Stephanie stayed connected to PCHAS, She taught children in the agency’s care through the years. When her youngest child graduated from high school, she felt ready to return to her roots at PCHAS.
"I love the mission," Stephanie says enthusiastically. "It’s a place where I can live out my faith—a place where the mission is truly embraced." She's particularly drawn to the collaborative spirit at PCHAS. "I love working with the team and connecting with the people I work with."
What excites you most about your role as Village Life Coordinator?
As the Village Life Coordinator, it’s Stephanie’s job to plan and host events that connect and enrich the community, like the Easter Egg Hunt and Itasca Summer Olympics. She’s also a valuable part of the program services team, supporting foster and kinship families at The Village and in the community, as needed. The variety keeps her engaged and energized. From setting up the back-to-school bash to managing respite care schedules and training families, Stephanie finds joy in her work. "Everything is purposeful and exciting," she notes.
What are you looking forward to?
Stephanie has 14 years of experience as a public-school music teacher. She created meaningful connections with children all day, every day. "I got to plan fun and exciting things with the kids every day as a teacher," she explains. "Now I'm looking forward to planning fun and exciting events that will help us connect as a village—planning things that everyone can enjoy together."
Her heart for children shows when she talks about building community. She wants to create shared experiences and celebrations that bring families together.
Final Thoughts
When asked to sum up her feelings about PCHAS, Stephanie's response is heartfelt: "PCHAS is a very special place. It's a hidden gem of a place."
With her deep community roots, background in education, and passion for the mission, Stephanie is perfectly positioned to enhance village life. She will create meaningful connections for families who partner with PCHAS to serve kids in foster care.
Welcome to the team, Stephanie! We're excited to see the impact you'll make as the Village Life Coordinator.
*Texas Child-Centered Care (T3C) is the state's new way to assess children in foster care and ensure they get services that fit their needs. T3C replaces the decades-old four-level system with a new assessment tool, an array of Service Packages, and new funding methods. (www.dfps.texas.gov/Texas_Child_Centered_Care) The Village Life Coordinator & T3C Specialist helps train families and supports them as they care for children within this new model.
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