Story of Hope: Michelle Hilderbrand
Michelle Hilderbrand took on the case in August 2023, involving a child whose mother, recently exiting CPS care, was re-entering the system due to instability and substance use while pregnant with her second child. Initially, the child was placed with a kinship caregiver, and Michelle quickly began offering her support to the family.
Throughout the case, Michelle maintained consistent communication with the caregivers, CPS caseworker, and mother, ensuring the child received necessary services and maintained regular visits with the mother. When the child's initial placement was disrupted and they were moved to a new foster home, Michelle accompanied the CPS caseworker to provide a familiar presence during the transition.
Shortly after the child’s move, the mother’s attorney requested the child's return, as the mother was now in a more stable placement, Michelle was supportive of reunification. Upon the child's successful reunification with the mother, Michelle assisted in re-establishing Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) services and provided ongoing support and encouragement to the mother throughout her second pregnancy.
As the mother prepared for hospitalization to give birth, Michelle advocated for a family member to temporarily care for the child, rather than an additional placement with a different relative suggested by CPS. This advocacy helped the child avoid yet another transition.
Michelle continues to actively engage both parents, encouraging them to complete their required services and bridging communication gaps between all involved parties, including the parents' attorneys, the child’s attorney, placement staff, and the child’s daycare.
Her dedicated support remains crucial in guiding this family towards a successful reunification.
