Telesha DeMendonca
Telesha DeMendonca is a compassionate and dedicated social worker based in Queens, New York, with a deep commitment to improving the lives of children and families. She currently serves as a car manager, where she advocates for the safety, well-being, and stability of vulnerable children and adults With IDD . Her work is driven by empathy, professionalism, and a steadfast belief in the power of social services to create lasting positive change in communities.
Before joining the NYC Administration for Children’s Services, Telesha gained extensive experience across multiple facets of social work and human services. She worked as a Care Manager at Advance Care Alliance New York, supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through person-centered care coordination. Additionally, as a Supervisor at HeartShare Human Services of New York, she developed her leadership and mentorship skills, overseeing teams that provided direct support to clients. Her earlier experience as a Direct Support Professional at the Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services further strengthened her foundation in compassionate care and advocacy.
Telesha is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at Chamberlain University, specializing in Clinical and Medical Social Work. Her educational journey, coupled with over a decade of hands-on experience, reflects her unwavering dedication to advancing her skills and impact within the field. Guided by empathy, integrity, and resilience, Telesha strives to be a voice for those in need and a catalyst for systemic change in social welfare.
• Chamberlain University - MSW
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for helping others and my commitment to continuous growth. I’m currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Social Work at Chamberlain University in Chicago, with a focus on supporting geriatric patients. My journey began at DST in 2017, where I first witnessed the challenges individuals face and realized how deeply I wanted to make a difference. That experience inspired my dedication to improving the quality of life for those in need and advocating for better care and support systems.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mother and mentor, Kaye. She has always been a tremendous source of inspiration, encouraging me to persevere through challenges and continue my education. Her constant reminder to “keep going and never give up” has motivated me to pursue my degree and stay committed to my goals, no matter the obstacles.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple but powerful: the road may not be easy, but never give up. Stay true to your values, fight for what you believe in, and keep your eyes on the prize. Every challenge you overcome will bring you one step closer to your purpose and success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are compassion, dedication, and integrity. I take great pride in going above and beyond for my clients to ensure they receive the best possible care. For example, I recently assisted a client whose Medicaid had expired by helping them transition to a partner with broader coverage—an experience that reaffirmed my commitment to advocacy and support. Outside of work, I value spending quality time with my son and close friends, as well as exploring new places. Traveling allows me to recharge and gain new perspectives—Jamaica, in particular, has been one of my favorite destinations, especially for its warmth, culture, and incredible food.