Shelby Russell-Hays’s personal history with adoption sparked an interest in a career in Social Services from an early age. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Pepperdine University in 2010, she immediately began working for a private child placing agency in Pierce County as a Foster Care Case Manager. In this position, Shelby provided direct support to Children’s Administration (now DCYF), children in out-of-home care, and their Caregivers.

A few years later, Shelby became employed with Children’s Administration in Pierce County as a Placement Coordinator; eventually transferring to the Vancouver office in Clark County in the same position. In Fall 2018, Shelby accepted her current position at the Alliance with a focus on serving the Caregiving Community through educational support.

Shelby’s passion for this work is rooted in ensuring safe spaces for children in out-of-home care; although, she believes that a true sense of safety includes cultivating an inner feeling of safety within each child. Because this process can be long and complex, Shelby and her team strive to empower those who care for these remarkable children by equipping them with the knowledge and tools that create connection and promote healing. She is grateful to work alongside others at the Alliance who share in her passion and inspire her, every day, to stay curious!