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Kanika McBride joined the SCAN RPS team in 2021 and shifted to the Primary Prevention Specialist role in 2023. We are thankful to have her expertise, kindness, and collaborative nature as part of the SCAN team!
How did you first get involved with SCAN?
I started at SCAN in 2021 as a Trauma Informed Education Specialist after being contacted by Amanda Lynch who at the time served as a Trauma Informed Education Specialist. She felt I’d be a good fit.
What has your life/work experience been that brought you to SCAN? What is your current role?
Growing up in a neighborhood plagued by violence and poverty, I experienced firsthand the challenges that many of SCAN's clients face. This upbringing instilled in me a deep understanding of the struggles and needs within such communities. Throughout my career, I've worked in various roles ranging from support staff in schools to behavior support, all with the aim of bridging the gaps between home and school environments. Currently, I serve as the Primary Prevention Specialist at SCAN. In this role, I utilize both my lived experiences and professional background to connect with those we serve on a deeper level. My work allows me to provide not only support and resources during times of need but also guidance and tools for growth and resilience.
What inspires you to stay involved with your work at SCAN?
I’m inspired by our mission to prevent and treat child abuse and neglect by protecting children, promoting positive parenting, strengthening families, and creating a community that values and cares for all children. This resonates with my core values and beliefs, making it more than just a job—it's personal. Growing up in a community that lacked access to the essential resources provided by SCAN, I understand challenges faced by underserved neighborhoods. Knowing that there are still many communities in similar situations drives me to continue this work. I'm inspired by the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families, providing them with the support and resources they need to not only survive but to thrive.
Is there anything you wish other people knew about SCAN?
I wish more people were aware of SCAN's existence. I also wish people knew that SCAN is more than just an acronym for 'Stop Child Abuse Now'; it represents survivors, change agents, and a necessary force for positive transformation.
What has been the best experience with SCAN so far?
Growth has been my best experience so far at SCAN not only within myself but also within the families I work with.
What are any challenges you have faced in your work with SCAN?
I’d say the challenge at SCAN is that there are not enough of us! My dream would be that there were enough of us to reach even more families in need, ensuring that no family falls through the cracks.
Do you have any goals or hopes for the next year with SCAN? Is there anything coming up that you are excited about or want to share?
My goal for the next year and every year after is that we’re able to decrease the number of children affected by child abuse by providing families with tools to care for one another so that our children don’t have to recover from their childhood and those exposed to trauma will have healthy ways to unpack their adverse experiences. I will also continue to raise awareness of what trauma actually is.
I'm excited to share 'A Place for Parents,' a weekly virtual group I facilitate every Wednesday from 10-11am. This space provides caregivers and parents with valuable parenting tools and resources to support the healthy development of their children. It's an opportunity for meaningful connections and learning.
In honor of Child Abuse Awareness Month, we'll be hosting 'A Day of Play' at Park 365 on Sunday, April 14, from 2-5pm. This community event is designed to emphasize the importance of play in fostering healthy development for children and their caregivers.
Additionally, the Community Resilience Committee will kick off Resilience Week by hosting a Block Party on May 4, from 12-4pm. This event aims to decrease gun violence by providing alternatives and increasing resilience within our community.
Are you involved with any other community organizations, hobbies, or activities?
I’m an active member in my church, Holy Rosary Catholic Church. I’m the chair of the Parish Council Committee, member of the Ladies of Sodality, Alter server and a member of the Evangelization Committee. In my spare time I love to cuddle up with a good book and spend time with my family.
What might someone be surprised to learn about you?
I strive to live my life with transparency in hopes that it displays my continuous growth and self-improvement. As a result, there may not be many surprising aspects about me but I believe in being authentic and genuine in all aspects of my life, and I hope that this transparency allows others to see me for who I truly am.
Is there anything I didn’t ask that you wish I had?
Ways SCAN can continue to grow? One area where I believe SCAN could continue its growth is by ensuring that we continue to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. This includes having a healthy balance among employees in terms of lived experience and education. I feel by having staff that is representative of our communities, we can better understand and address the unique needs and challenges faced by those we serve.
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