#supportVAkids: Recent Episodes
VA Division of Child Support
Virginia Division of Child Support is committed to helping parents support their children by focusing on more than just money. This podcast will share who we are and what we do!
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Terry Gates, Senior Analyst on the Data Informs Team at Virginia Child Support. With over 30 years of service, Terry brings a unique blend of field experience, policy knowledge, and a deep commitment to using data to improve outcomes for families.
Terry shares his journey from case management in local offices to leading the development of performance reports that shape how the agency operates. He discusses the importance of building systems that outlast individuals, why safeguarding data matters, and how the team is improving access to meaningful information through new tools and automation. Most of all, he emphasizes that behind every report is a desire to help people—whether they’re families in need or frontline staff making tough decisions every day.
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Sheila Garden, Program Coordinator Senior with the Program Services team at Virginia Child Support—and a longtime public servant whose career has touched nearly every corner of the agency. As part of our TANF and VIEW series, Sheila reflects on her earlier roles as a case manager, paternity specialist, and intergovernmental expert, offering a firsthand look at how case management, support enforcement, and customer service all work together to serve families.
Sheila shares lessons from her time in the field, common barriers parents face, and how misinformation can create unnecessary roadblocks. She also recounts the story of meeting Shalita Gaskins—first as a customer, now as a colleague—and why building relationships, sharing resources, and treating people with dignity matter at every step.
🎧 Tune in to hear how Sheila’s deep experience and compassion help connect programs, support families, and shape the future of child support in Virginia.
In this powerful episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Shelita Gaskins, Senior Enforcement Specialist at the Central Virginia District Office—and the behind-the-scenes force that helps produce this very podcast. Shelita shares her full-circle story, from receiving TANF and participating in the VIEW program to building a career with Virginia Child Support and becoming a leader in her community.
Shelita talks candidly about the challenges of navigating government assistance, the gaps in support that can hinder long-term stability, and the small moments of empowerment that helped her believe in herself and her future. She reflects on the impact of programs like VIEW and child support when paired with a long-term plan and personal motivation—and offers honest advice to others trying to find their way.
🎧 Tune in for a raw, inspiring conversation about growth, perspective, and the power of seeing the other side of the desk
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely kicks off a special series exploring the intersection between child support and the VIEW program by talking with Annette Johnson, Senior Job Developer with Henrico County’s Department of Social Services. With over 20 years of experience helping families move toward stability, Annette shares her passion for workforce development, the barriers families face, and why a job is just the beginning—not the end—of the journey.
Annette walks listeners through the VIEW program’s structure, from job training and transportation to child care support and career planning. She shares how VIEW works to build true self-sufficiency, and why helping participants "dream big" matters more than ever. With practical insight and heartfelt stories—including a recent success she helped support—this episode highlights the quiet work of social service professionals making a difference every day.
🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about building careers, meeting people where they are, and showing up for the long haul.
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely talks with Tondra Boone, Administrative Staff Specialist to the CFO for the Division of Finance at the Virginia Department of Social Services. With nearly three decades in state service, Tondra shares her journey from her early roles in the field to her current position supporting the agency’s financial operations.
Tondra opens up about her roots in Southampton County, her life as a military spouse and mom, and the personal experiences that have shaped her dedication to public service. She reflects on the behind-the-scenes work that keeps programs running, the importance of adaptability, and why building strong relationships matters just as much in finance as it does in frontline service.
🎧 Tune in for a warm, personal conversation about service, resilience, and the people behind the numbers.
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely speaks with Natasha Stevens, Program Support Technician at the Central Virginia District Office. Natasha talks about her professional growth from eligibility roles to child support, and the mentors and leaders who helped her believe in herself along the way.
From managing the front desk to offering encouragement to families in crisis, Natasha shares how her perspective has been shaped by service, determination, and a deep belief in the power of kindness. She also shares her love of karaoke, her family roots in Prince George’s County, and how laughter helps her stay grounded—even during the busiest days.
🎧 Tune in for a joyful, grounded conversation about growth, confidence, and making your own way.
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely talks with Tiffany Joyner, Senior Program Consultant at the Division of Child Support Enforcement. Tiffany reflects on her career journey—from starting as a child support worker to becoming a trusted policy advisor and resource across Virginia.
Tiffany shares how a spirit of service and a strong sense of purpose have guided her through complex roles, unexpected challenges, and big-picture change. Whether she’s writing policy, supporting local offices, or asking tough questions in the name of fairness, Tiffany brings grace, humor, and insight to everything she does. She also shares what motivates her, how she supports others, and why it’s okay not to have all the answers—yet.
🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about staying true to your values, leading with care, and learning along the way."
Vickie Williams in this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Vickie Williams, Employee Relations Consultant for the VDSS Compliance Team. From her early days working in the Newport News child support office to her current role supporting employees and leaders across the agency, Vickie shares how her background in mediation, coaching, and conflict resolution informs her compassionate, solutions-focused approach to employee support.
Vickie opens up about her journey through public service, her love of animals (especially her dog Sugarfoot), and how she finds balance through mindfulness, journaling, and Canva design. She also discusses the confidential nature of ADA accommodations, the importance of coaching in employee relations, and the value of creating space for crucial conversations.
🎧 Tune in to hear how Vickie blends service, empathy, and leadership to help others feel seen, heard, and supported.
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely chats with Robin Lee, Intake, Intergovernmental, and TANF Enforcement Supervisor at the Central Virginia District Office. With a career rooted in public service, Robin shares her journey from Virginia Medicaid to child support—and why she believes every client deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
Robin reflects on the importance of adaptability, building relationships, and leading with compassion. From managing three teams to carrying her own caseload, she shares how she stays grounded, what inspires her, and why retirement (and cruising) is on the horizon. With humor and heart, Robin reminds us all that the work we do matters—and how standing in the gap can change lives.
🎧 Tune in for an honest, energizing conversation about leadership, service, and staying human in the hard moments.
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely talks with Jonathan Singleton, Assistant Director for Employee Engagement at the Virginia Department of Human Resource Management. Jonathan shares his inspiring journey—from growing up in Brunswick County, to serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, to now leading initiatives that support and celebrate Virginia’s state employees.
Jonathan discusses the many programs he oversees, including the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC), the new statewide mentorship program, employee wellness initiatives, and volunteer opportunities. He also shares how his personal commitment to service, shaped by his military experience and passion for helping others, drives every project he touches.
🎧 Tune in for a conversation full of heart, hope, and practical ways to make a difference—at work and in the world.
Michelle Smith In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely is joined by Michelle Smith, Program Coordinator Senior on the Program Services team and a subject matter expert with the VChamps system modernization project. Michelle shares her inspiring journey from working the front desk as a Program Support Technician to helping redesign Virginia’s child support case management systems.
Michelle reflects on the people who believed in her potential, her path through eligibility and child support roles, and how field experience gives her a unique perspective in shaping future tools for frontline workers. With a focus on empowerment, efficiency, and transparency, Michelle brings both heart and strategy to every space she enters—reminding us all to submit our ideas, offer solutions, and give ourselves grace on the tough days.
🎧 Tune in to hear how Michelle went from PST to powerhouse—and what she’s doing now to support workers across the state.
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely speaks with Alex Vanik, Program Development Officer with Serve Virginia, about AmeriCorps, partnership building, and the small actions that fuel big change. Alex shares his journey from AmeriCorps VISTA member to leading grant planning and outreach efforts across the state—proving that passion, strategy, and service can shape a meaningful career in public service.
Alex talks about the statewide impact of AmeriCorps programs, the importance of recognizing community volunteers, and why building connections between nonprofits, government, and education partners makes all the difference. With an eye on collaboration and a heart for service, he reminds us all: you can do more than you think.
🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful, energizing conversation about service, systems, and stepping up.
In this special Mother's Day edition of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely welcomes mother-daughter duo Ameera Vines, Support Enforcement Specialist Senior at CVDO, and Helen Vines, Business Process Reengineering Consultant with Virginia Child Support. Together, they share their personal journeys into public service, the importance of maintaining independence while working in the same agency, and the surprising parts of their personalities you might not see at first glance.
Helen reflects on her deep commitment to helping others and her transition from advocacy work into child support services, while Ameera talks about her path from corporate events to case management—and how she brings creativity and heart to staff training. From Friday dance parties to family group chats, this episode is full of laughter, wisdom, and a heartfelt look at balancing family and professional life.
🎧 Tune in for an inspiring, warm conversation that celebrates connection, service, and showing up for each other every day.
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely interviews Jonathan Mosher, consultant in the Employee and Organizational Strategy portfolio at VDSS. From his early days in DMV communications to e-learning design and internal culture work at DSS, Jonathan shares how storytelling, curiosity, and service have shaped his 35-year career in Virginia state government.
They discuss the evolution of internal learning tools, the mission behind VDSS Connect, and Jonathan’s commitment to employee wellness and workplace culture. He also opens up about beekeeping, sailing, short stories, and how his work building bridges between people is rooted in a belief that connection strengthens community.
🎧 Tune in to learn how one employee’s quiet influence is helping thousands of others feel seen, inspired, and included.
In this special sibling edition of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely is joined by Tameka Stephens, Court Unit Supervisor, and her younger brother Milton Hill, Support Enforcement Specialist—both from the Central Virginia District Office. In honor of National Sibling Day, they share personal stories from childhood and their professional paths into child support, offering a heartfelt look at family, service, and the power of showing up for others.
Tameka reflects on her transition from aspiring OB-GYN to her current role, while Milton talks about moving from community-based work into child support and how being a male voice in the field has helped him connect with parents in meaningful ways. From funny memories of babysitting duties to thoughtful insights on time, caregiving, and grace, this episode is full of laughter, wisdom, and love.
🎧 Tune in for a genuine and uplifting conversation that celebrates family on—and off—the clock.
Episode Title: Paying It Forward – A Conversation with Vickie Carter
In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Vickie Carter, Director of Operations Senior for Virginia Child Support, to talk about her journey through the agency, the lessons she’s learned, and how she’s shaping the future of field operations. Vickie shares insights from her decades-long career, from starting as a fiscal worker in 1988 to now overseeing all district offices statewide. She reflects on the importance of mentorship, organizational change, and the small daily decisions that drive impact for both staff and families.
Listen in as Vickie discusses the challenges of leadership, the evolving landscape of child support services, and why paying it forward is at the heart of her work. Whether you're a new caseworker or a seasoned professional, this episode offers practical advice, motivation, and a reminder that success is a shared journey.
In the February 14, 2025 episode of the Virginia Child Support Podcast, hashtag Support VA Kids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Kimberly Fortune, Operations Manager for the Employee and Organizational Strategy Portfolio at VDSS. Kimberly shares her journey from Louisa County, Virginia, to becoming the "Chaos Coordinator" and glue that holds her team together. She oversees Human Resources, Public Affairs, Organizational Development, and Enterprise Learning and Development, working closely with every level of VDSS to keep things running smoothly.
Kimberly talks about her leadership philosophy, rooted in care, connection, and empathy, revealing that she wants her legacy to be that she “cared enough to show up.” She describes herself as an ambivert who needs time to recharge and admits that her biggest challenge is her own perfectionism. Despite the pressure she puts on herself, Kimberly finds joy in supporting the caregivers who serve Virginia’s communities. She believes deeply in self-care, using the analogy of pouring from the saucer while keeping her cup full. Her commitment to leading with kindness and ensuring that people feel heard and seen is at the heart of everything she does.
This episode gives listeners an inspiring look into what it means to be the caregiver for the caregivers. #SupportVAKids #Chaos Coordinator #LeadingwithKindness
In this episode of the #SupportVAKids Podcast, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Mark Abernathy, Property and Facilities Manager at the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS). Mark is the person who quite literally keeps the lights on and the doors open for the agency.
Mark shares insights into his journey from architecture to state facilities management, the excitement and challenges of leading a dynamic team, and the philosophy that guides his work—ensuring VDSS employees have what they need to do their jobs effectively. He also discusses the recent agency move, the thought process behind the new workspace design, and his dedication to creating a functional and welcoming environment.
Beyond work, Mark talks about his love for travel, his family’s mission to visit all 50 states, and an upcoming trip to Japan. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary VDSS Chili Cook-Off, revealing past winners, bragging rights, and the creative entries that make the event a must-attend.
Tune in to hear Mark’s story, his advice for agency staff, and what’s next for the #SupportVAKids Podcast!
This episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast features Tonya Moore, Administrative Staff Assistant on the DCSE Home Office Admin Team. Tonya shares her inspiring journey, from her early roles at VCU Medical Center and DMAS to her 19-year career with DCSE. Known for her problem-solving skills and dedication to helping others, Tanya opens up about her passion for supporting families, her nickname “Olivia Pope,” and her commitment to professional growth.
Listeners will hear about her unique experiences working in both field and Home Office roles, her contributions to IT and inventory coordination, and how she leverages her skills to foster collaboration and improve customer service. Tonya’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability, continuous learning, and the impact of simply listening and understanding the needs of others.
Tune in to be inspired by Tonya’s dedication to advancing her career, uplifting her team, and making a difference for Virginia’s families.
This episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast celebrates the remarkable career of Wade Hopkins as he approaches retirement from the Virginia Department of Social Services. A true advocate for families, Wade has served in many roles, from district manager to Business Solutions Consultant, leaving an indelible mark on Virginia's child support program.
Join host Mariellen Keely as she chats with Wade about his journey, the values that shaped his leadership style, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Wade reflects on how servant leadership, teamwork, and a focus on the agency’s mission have driven his efforts to create meaningful change. He also shares his hopes for retirement, including reigniting his passion for magic and balloon art, along with his commitment to continuous learning and giving back.
Wade’s inspiring story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact dedicated individuals can have in supporting and uplifting families across Virginia. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation celebrating a career built on service, joy, and leadership.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode closes a chapter of the home office series. This week’s guest is special not just because he is my boss, but he is also the Director the Program Operations - Policy & Initiatives Team. Spend time hearing about his first jobs and what he wanted to be when he grew up. His also has a message for DCSE about the work his team is doing for families in Virginia.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode is another installment about the home office managers. This week’s guest is no stranger to the anyone in Virginia Child Support, Verrhonda Bullock, Intergovernmental, Financial Response & DCSE Home Office Admin Team Manager. Spend time hearing about how she got her start and the work her team is doing for families in Virginia.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode, begins a new short series about the home office managers. This week’s guest is no stranger to the anyone in Virginia Child Support, Sandra Brown, Program Guidance Manager. Spend time hearing about how she got her start and the work her team is doing for families in Virginia.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode, while not focused on vCHAMPS, offers valuable insights and great conversation about a special program within the child support program with this episode’s guest, Greg Harrison. Spend time hearing about the Family Engagement Services Team and the work they are doing for families in Virginia.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode, while not focused on our vCHAMPS system modernization project, has a special guest host, along with a familiar guest. Mariellen Keely hops to the other side of the microphone, this time as a guest, and is interviewed by our guest host, Taylor Ashe, a Policy Program Consultant with our Program Initiatives team. Mariellen shares information about the latest grant that has been awarded to the Virginia DCSE Program Initiatives Team titled Next Gen FIRST: Families In Reentry Seeking Transformation.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode, while not focused on vCHAMPS, offers valuable insights and great conversation about the child support program with this episode’s guest, Michelle Mirakian. Spend time hearing about her new role and the work she and her team are doing for Virginia DCSE Valley Office.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode, while not focused on vCHAMPS, offers valuable insights and great conversation about the child support program with this episode’s guest, Danelle Bradshaw. Spend time hearing about Danelle’s new role and the work she and her team are doing for Virginia DCSE in the forms and data space.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode, while not focused on vCHAMPS, offers valuable insights and great conversation about the child support program with this episode’s guest, Brenda Clark. Spend time hearing about Brenda’s new role and the work she and her team are doing for Virginia DCSE in the judicial process.
Welcome to the fifth episode of the SAVES grant series on the #SupportVaKids podcast! This episode features an interview with Latoria White and Robin Stevens from the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance (VSDVA). During this week’s episodes, our host, Mariellen, chats with them as they share their role and perspective with the SAVES project and provide information about the domestic violence hotline. Links can be found below to the topics referenced throughout this conversation.
https://vsdvalliance.org/get-help-ayuda/hotlines/
https://vsdvalliance.org/contact/
https://vsdvalliance.org/restoryation/
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode, while not focused on vCHAMPS, offers insights and great conversation about the child support program with our guest, Lisa White. Learn about how Lisa got her start in the program and about the work her new team are doing for DCSE.
Welcome to the fourth episode of SAVES grant series on the #SupportVaKids podcast! This episode features a second interview with Sarah Mendoza, Policy Program Consultant. During this week’s episodes, our host, Mariellen, chats with Sarah as she shares her perspective on the SAVES project and provides information specifically about the upcoming training program with SAVES. Sarah also discusses what staff should expect, along with how the SAVES team is preparing for the training for staff.
Welcome to the latest episode of the #SupportVAKids podcast! This episode, while not focused on vCHAMPS, offers insights and great conversation about the child support program with our guest, Kevin Butler, the man, the myth, the legend. Learn about how Kevin ended up in the child support program and some of his achievements.
vCHAMPS Episode: Welcome to the nine episode of the vCHAMPS series on the #SupportVAKids podcast! Virginia DCSE is making significant progress with the vCHAMPS project, aiming to modernize our child support case management system. This is the second of two episodes where we’re excited to present the vCHAMPS training team to our listeners.
vCHAMPS Episode: Welcome to the eighth episode of the vCHAMPS series on the #SupportVAKids podcast! Virginia DCSE is making significant progress with the vCHAMPS project, aiming to modernize our child support case management system. This is the first of two episodes where we’re excited to present the vCHAMPS training team to our listeners.
This is the seventh episode in our vCHAMPS series of the #SupportVAKids podcast! The vCHAMPS project is well underway as Virginia DCSE forges ahead with the vCHAMPS project, our ambitious endeavor to creating a modernized child support case management system. In this episode, you will hear from Michelle Franco, the newly appointed Program Operations Director with a wealth of experience in child support services. Michelle will offer her unique insights into the project’s progress and discuss how these transformative changes are set to empower our caseworkers with enhanced efficiency. This leap forward promises to free up valuable time, allowing our dedicated team to focus on what they do best: supporting and uplifting Virginia’s families.
This is the sixth episode in the vCHAMPS series of the #SupportVAKids podcast, including a special crossover with the SAVES project! No matter what lens you look at this episode through, it is one you don’t want to miss. Hear from Tammi Jordan, as she shares her perspective of both the vCHAMPS and the SAVES projects, her experience with Virginia DCSE, and what she is most excited about as we embark on this epic journey to a modernized child support system.
Welcome back to the fifth episode in our vCHAMPS project series on the #SupportVAKids podcast! The vCHAMPS project is well underway as Virginia DCSE works to create a modernized child support case management system. Hear from two members of the Organizational Change Management team, as they share an overview of the project, what their roles looks like, and provide a refresher on the background work that has already been done on this epic journey to a modernized system.
Welcome back to the fourth episode in our vCHAMPS project series on the #SupportVAKids podcast! The vCHAMPS project is well underway as Virginia DCSE works to create a modernized child support case management system. Hear from two members of the Human Centered Design team, as they share an overview of the project, what their role looks like, and remind us to trust the process, keep a human-centered approach when building our new system, and to also remain optimistic as we embark on this epic journey to a modernized system.
Welcome back to the third episode in our vCHAMPS project series on the #supportvakids podcast! The vCHAMPS project is well underway as Virginia DCSE works to create a modernized child support case management system. Hear from two product owners, Therea Coleman and Taneisha Taliferro, as they share an overview of the project, what their roles look like, and what an exciting time this is for Virginia, as we begin this epic journey to a modernized system.
Welcome back to the second episode in our vCHAMPS project series on the #supportvakids podcast! The vCHAMPS project is well underway as Virginia DCSE works to create a modernized child support case management system. Hear from Subject Matter Expert (SME), Angela Grady, as she shares an overview of the project, what her role looks like, and reminds us to focus on progress not perfection as we begin this epic journey to a modernized system.
Welcome to the first episode in our vCHAMPS project series on the #supportvakids podcast! The vCHAMPS project is well underway as Virginia DCSE works to create a modernized child support case management system. Hear from Project Co-Directors, Stephanie Connelly and Davora Hudson, as they share an overview of the project, what their roles look like in leading the project, and remind us to embrace technology and support change as we begin this epic journey to a modernized system.
The third episode of SAVES grant series on the #SupportVaKids podcast features an interview with Dr Jennifer Reid, Evaluation Director, Center for Public Policy, L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU. Jenn shares her perspective of the SAVES project and teaches us a few things about the evaluation process along the way.
This episode is an interview with our new Divisional Director Alana Tucker. Learn about Alana's experience within the DCSE child support program and her vision for our agency!
The second episode of the relaunch of the #SupportVaKids podcast features an interview with Pierre Berastain who was previously the Chief Strategy & Operations Officer at Caminar Latino - Latinos United for Peace and Equity, which formed one third of the SAVES Center and was pivotal in the early architecture of the SAVES federal demonstration grant. Pierre shares his passion for the SAVES project and the experiences that brought him to the grant, along with his hopes for the 5-year project period.
The first episode of the relaunch of Virginia Division of Child Support’s #SupportVaKids podcast features an interview with the Virginia SAVES Project Director, Taylor Ashe and SAVES Policy Program Consultant, Sarah Mendoza. This episode focuses on learning a little more about them and their plan for this 5-year SAVES grant project.
There is a myth that the Division only collects and disburses money. We also have Family Engagement Services and a worker in each office who do a bit more. This is the second episode in a series about these workers and they all provide great information about the program. For more information visit our website, call 1-800-468-8894, or email us at askdcse@dss.virginia.gov.
There is a myth that the Division only collects and disburses money. We also have Family Engagement Services and a worker in each office who do a bit more. This is the first episode in a series about these workers and they all provide great information about the program. For more information visit our website, call 1-800-468-8894, or email us at askdcse@dss.virginia.gov.
Our first episode is an interview with our Director, Barbara Lacina. Learn about her and her vision for our agency!