For over 15 years, Paola Jordan has dedicated her career to supporting children in foster care. As an Intensive Services Foster Care (ISFC) Social Worker at The Village, she works closely with youth who have experienced significant trauma, ensuring they receive the care and stability they need to thrive.
“I love what I do,” Paola shares. “I’ve met so many resource parents who have changed kids’ lives, and with ISFC, I get to work really closely with them to make sure these kids have the support they need.”
“My experience in working with Paola has been great. When I need her, she makes herself available. If I need anything her car is like a supermarket she has diapers, wipes, pajamas, you name it. Paola is a complete social worker who collaborates with the child and family and always looks deeper to see what it is the children need to be successful.” – Mayra, Resource Parent
Paola is so committed to the wellbeing of children that she volunteers during parts of her precious free time. Pictured here is Paola with a group of children she works with when she travels to Guatemala.
The ISFC program at The Village provides a higher level of care for children with more complex needs. A team—including a therapist, an in-home behavior specialist, and a coordinator—works together to provide wraparound support. Resource parents receive additional training, and children benefit from more frequent in-home visits and intensive services. Paola, who started as a traditional social worker, was drawn to ISFC because of its team-oriented approach and the deep impact it has on kids.
“I have learned a lot of things from Paola, she always goes above and beyond. She has a big heart, is passionate and has a wealth of knowledge. Paola always seeks opportunities to better the children lives while they are in foster care.” – Josefina Danwing, ISFC Social Worker
A very recent rewarding case she worked on involved a seven-year-old girl who had been in seven different placements before the age of five. After two years in ISFC, the child’s resource parents decided to adopt her. “They provided stability, love, and structure, not just for her but for every child who has entered their home,” Paola says. “Seeing her adoption move forward has been incredibly emotional and rewarding.”
While the work is meaningful, Paola emphasizes that social work is not for the faint of heart. “There’s a lot of paperwork, a lot of putting out fires. You’re building connections, but emotionally, it really affects you,” she explains. “You have to take care of yourself in this field.” She also advises new social workers to focus on building relationships—with resource parents, the County, and the children themselves—because collaboration is key to finding permanency and stability for kids in care.
“Paola’s contributions to the ISFC and FFA (Foster Family Agency) Departments for the last 15 years have been incredibly impactful to the children and families we serve. Paola ensures her clients are milestones and progress are celebrated by highlighting wins no matter the magnitude. Paola is also very resourceful and has made connections with donors that have brought forth benefits that have reached clients in all programs.” – Cora Gonzalez, FFA Program Manager
Paola’s passion and commitment reflect the heart of The Village’s mission—to bring hope, healing, and permanent homes to children who need them most. Thank you, Paola!
