Charlene Fox grew up one of eight siblings, living in multiple foster homes in her adolescence. Her experience in the child welfare system heavily influenced her decision to enter the social work field.
“I have a strong belief,” she says, “that family extends further than those biologically related – including friends and community members.”
After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh Greensburg with a degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology, Charlene worked at Allegheny County Children, Youth, and Families investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect for six years.
She obtained her Master of Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh in 2021 and her LSW in 2022.
Charlene wanted to expand her knowledge of working with children and adolescents, which led her to Kids Plus as a Resource and Counseling Coordinator. Other professional interests and experiences include substance use counseling for adolescents and community work focused on improving maternal mental health.
In her free time, Charlene likes to spend as much time outside with her husband and close friends as possible. She enjoys baking and sharing new dessert recipes with her coworkers (the coworkers also enjoy this).
Charlene’s favorite places to “play” in Pittsburgh are Frick Park, Monroeville Community Park, and checking out a good book from one of the many beautiful Carnegie Libraries.
Her favorite childhood toys were Polly Pockets and an Easy Bake Oven.