For OhioKAN’s second anniversary, we interviewed Veronica Burroughs, OhioKAN’s Project Manager from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Veronica has been with the program since its origin. We asked her a few questions about the last two years:

What has surprised you most about the program?: 

How quickly we have grown! We knew that families needed access to resources, but serving over 2,000 families in one year was not what I expected. I am so glad that OhioKAN has been there for them, and I hope we continue to grow. I know there are many more families who could use additional resources that they may not yet know are available. I look forward to even more families connecting with OhioKAN in the future.

What has been your favorite part about working with OhioKAN?: 

It’s hard to pick just one. This has been one of my favorite jobs. There are so many great parts. I think my favorite is being able to work with the OhioKAN staff. Hearing their passion for the work they do keeps me motivated and excited. They are always advocating, connecting, or just listening to the families, and I’m glad I can be a part of that work. They are a resourceful group of people!  

What are you most excited about for OhioKAN in the future? 

Bringing the entire OhioKAN model across the state. I believe this program will be an evidence-based practice. We will be able to show that all of the work the navigators are putting in helps families get access to the services they need  and ensures that children have safe, stable homes. I am looking forward to the day we get that evidence, and bring that level of service across the entire state.

Thank you Veronica, and thank you to all OhioKAN staff, families, and supporters for making the last two years so wonderful.