Carbon County is recognizing the men and women who work in Children and Youth Services during Child Welfare Appreciation Week.

The week, which is June 9-13, aims to honor those who work to protect the children after a report of neglect or abuse has been filed.

Last week, the county commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing this week in the county.

“The commissioners of Carbon County recognize the risks and need to intervene to protect children of Carbon County,” the proclamation states. “The challenging tasks of investigating child abuse, providing services to families, assessing safety and providing services that are critically necessary to ensure the children in Carbon County are provided with nurturance, and connections and support as they transition into adulthood.”

Jill Geissinger, director of Children and Youth, thanked the board for recognizing the 13 caseworkers on staff at the department.

She noted that experience in her office ranges from 20 years of service to four months and everything in between.

“Every day they show up with a smile on their face, they go out and they help children and families and put their best effort forward,” Geissinger said. “Sometimes it is a dangerous situation. They’re knocking on doors. They don’t know what’s going to come, but their hearts are in it.”

Commissioner Wayne Nothstein said that many people don’t realize just what these caseworkers walk into in some cases.

“Their safety is at risk,” he said. “They go out many times with police officers when they have to go into homes because of the situations. The homes are not in the best condition. I’ve been in those homes as a first responder so I know what they go through a lot of times. The threat of drugs and other issues they face when they go into these homes as well.

“I appreciate what you do and the time you put in and the compassion that you have for our children in Carbon County.”

Commissioner Rocky Ahner echoed his previous thoughts, saying that while these caseworkers’ jobs may be the worst in the county, it’s also the most rewarding when they can make a difference in a child’s life.

“It’s amazing how these kids survive and you’re helping them survive and getting them to a better place,” Ahner said. “Thank you very much for what you do.”