Lived Experience and the Role it plays in Preventing Child Abuse

Join us for an inspiring presentation from Anna Kelleher about Lived experience and the role it plays in preventing child abuse.
About the Speaker:
Anna Kelleher, ASW is a social worker and advocate with over 20 years of experience in Workforce Development and Homelessness, she has dedicated her career to addressing some of the most pressing social issues in the Bay Area. Her extensive work includes managing homeless shelters across the East Bay and San Mateo Counties, as well as serving as a Psychiatric Social Worker in San Mateo County today, where she supports individuals with severe mental health challenges who are incarcerated.
A certificated Domestic Violence Advocate and trainer, Anna is also on the path to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Her commitment to education extends to her role as a former instructor at San Francisco State University, where she taught in the social work department, and as a mentor in women’s leadership development.
What truly distinguishes Anna in her field is her personal journey. Having experienced homelessness, child abuse and witnessing domestic violence during her childhood, she has transformed her own trauma into a source of empathy and strength. Her father’s abusive behavior and the hardships she faced growing up fueled her passion for social work and her drive to support other survivors of childhood trauma.
Anna’s guiding philosophy is encapsulated in her quote: “I believe that all humans deserve to have a roof over their head, clean clothes, food, and most importantly, love, safety and an encouraging person in their lives.” Through her work, she remains steadfast in her mission to create positive change, one human being at a time.