Kerry Burns Joins as New Director of Clinical Services: Focusing on Empowerment Over Rescue

"I’m not here to save; I’m here to empower," asserts Kerry Burns, our new Director of Clinical Services. With over two decades of social work experience, Burns brings a wealth of expertise and a dynamic approach to her role. Her passion for service is even reflected in her wardrobe - her jacket lining prominently features Wonder Woman. 

Burns' career has been defined by a steadfast dedication to guiding individuals toward self-sufficiency. Whether working as a front-line case manager, therapist, or assisting university students experiencing crisis, her focus has always been on empowering those she serves. "Too often, I see people come in and try to save others, which is so well intentioned but unsustainable" she explains. "We’re here to empower them, to teach them." 

This philosophy extends to her leadership style. Burns believes in equipping her staff with the tools they need to foster real, lasting change. "Let’s focus on teaching our clients the skills they need to be successful and how to access resources once they move on from our care. That’s where real change occurs," she notes. Already, in her short time at Community Forward, Burns has shown enthusiasm for our frontline work and the dedication of our staff.

She is also keen on introducing practices that promote well-being among her team. "I remind staff to set boundaries and take care of themselves," she advises. Spoken like a true therapist, she also tells her staff to remember what belongs to them, and what belongs to the clients. “By empowering staff with the resources and skills they need to be successful, those staff are better able to offer the same to clients.  Everyone benefits. That’s what I’m hoping to inspire here.” 

As Burns steps into her new role, she is eager to make a meaningful impact. "I want staff, wherever they are in their career, to look back and be able to say, 'Oh, that [skill], I learned that at Community Forward.'"