Mario Rodrigues, a family caseworker for youth that are placed in CHD’s comprehensive Foster Care program, was recognized as a “Game Changer” during a November 29 game played by our partners, the Springfield Thunderbirds.

Rodrigues has been a member of our foster care team since 2021. He is crucial to providing the highest level of care to both the children referred to CHD for placement, as well as the dedicated foster parents entrusted with the care of those children.

He “has a calm, professional, and caring personality that enables him to work with a wide variety of clients and service providers,” according to his introduction during the game.

Rodrigues visits his clients in their foster homes at least once a week and helps ensure that all of their needs are being met and that they receive all the supportive services needed. He is also part of CHD’s on-call service that provides support to clients after hours in emergency situations. “Mario has typically managed a high caseload while still assisting CHD in new staff hiring and training,” according to his introduction. “He has been a stabilizing force within CHD through the pandemic and has always maintained his focus on ensuring that his clients receive the best care possible.”

If you’d like to recognize someone for their impact in the community, click here. In addition to being recognized at the game, nominees receive four free tickets to the game!