Her Story
About Genice
Genice Childress is a retired Financial Support Program Supervisor with the State of Alabama Department of Human Resources, where she built a distinguished 25-year career dedicated to human services and community support. Advancing to program supervisor, she led a team of eight and was responsible for ensuring her unit achieved state-mandated performance objectives. Her work focused on the financial aspects of social services, including child support and public assistance programs, while also providing guidance and support to individuals and families navigating complex systems. Her extensive experience in program oversight, staff leadership, advocacy, and client services established a strong foundation for her continued commitment to helping others.
Following her extensive career with DHR, Genice pursued her MSW in Social Work from Alabama State University, specializing in mental health, and earned her LMSW license to expand her ability to provide direct, hands-on support to clients. She attributes her professional success to a deeply personal investment in the field, having experienced social service programs herself. One of those experiences ultimately led to a referral for her first position with DHR as a case manager, giving her firsthand insight into the importance of accessible and compassionate social services. Her dedication and leadership were recognized during her tenure with DHR, including recognition for successfully meeting state performance objectives with her team.
Genice is passionate about advocacy, compassionate service, and helping individuals overcome barriers so they can move forward with confidence. She believes that challenges are hurdles rather than limitations and encourages others to persevere, remain humble, and learn from those who have traveled the path before them. Beyond her professional contributions, she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and remains actively involved in church outreach programs, reflecting her commitment to service and community. Today, Genice brings her decades of human services leadership, social work education, and personal understanding of social service systems to opportunities where she can continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Genice
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to personal investment and the meaningful connection between my professional experiences and my own life. Having personally experienced social service programs, I developed a deep understanding of the impact these services can have on individuals and families. One of those experiences ultimately led to a referral for a position with the Department of Human Resources, where I began my career as a case manager. That personal connection has continued to motivate me throughout my career, strengthening my commitment to serving others and making a meaningful difference in their lives.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to always remain humble. I believe humility will take you further in your career than any degree, credential, or amount of training ever could. Staying humble allows me to remain open to learning, appreciate the contributions of others, and continue growing both personally and professionally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to persevere and remain open to learning from those who have already traveled the path ahead of them. The guidance and experiences of others can provide valuable perspective and help you navigate challenges with greater confidence. I also encourage women to periodically step back and reflect on their goals, values, and direction to ensure they are continuing on a path that aligns with the future they truly want for themselves.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge and opportunity in my field is the growing need for behavioral health and social services. Many people encounter significant barriers when seeking support, and it can be easy to become discouraged or give up when faced with an obstacle. I believe, however, that one barrier does not determine your ability to succeed. It is simply a hurdle to overcome. I remain committed to helping individuals recognize their potential, persevere through challenges, and access the resources and support they need to move forward.
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