Brandie McCabe, an FSU graduate with more than 18 years of social services experience, recently joined the Ability1st team as our Human Services Program Manager. Brandie’s passion for empowering people began as a Child Protective Investigator in Bay County. Managing heavy caseloads, she worked tirelessly to keep children safe while making every effort to divert families from involvement with the child welfare system. In 2009, Brandie transitioned to the private sector, working for a community-based care lead agency, NWF Health Network. Leveraging her analytical skills, Brandie participated in a number of agency quality and process improvement projects during her tenure. In 2016 Brandie relocated to Leon County after accepting a position at Florida Department of Children and Families, Office of Child Welfare. In her position at headquarters, she had the responsibility of overseeing independent living services for foster youth and young adults across the state. That experience provided Brandie the opportunity to sharpen her policy writing, stakeholder engagement, and training skills. With the continued desire to serve, Brandie shifted gears in 2020 to advance the One Voice Impact youth voice movement. Advocating for those with lived foster care experiences, Brandie helped raise awareness about systemic issues and contributed to significant legislative changes. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, volunteering at Engage Church and mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters.