Andrea is a recent graduate of the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare and has earned her Bachelor of Social Work. Andrea is continuing onto the Accelerated Master’s Program to earn a Master of Social Work.

Andrea got into this work on a complete whim to find a social work oriented job in her junior year at KU. She had no experience working with youth in foster care or child welfare. Since then, Andrea has quickly fallen in love with this work and the incredible resiliency of these youth. She now serves as the Case Coordinator for House 1 and House 2 at O’Connell Children’s Shelter.

Andrea likes to recharge her batteries by playing with her two beloved parakeets–Ellie and Louie, spending time with friends and family, bird watching, and collecting vintage clothing.

Ryan is the Case Coordinator for House 3 at O’Connell Children’s Shelter. Ryan and his wife have been working with children in some capacity during their entire marriage, now over 17 years. They have worked with youth in schools, church, and most recently as house parents.

He and his wife have 4 children, one by birth and three by adoption/guardianship, and have raised over 60 children as a couple in their years of child care. Ryan is proud to be a part of O’Connell Children’s Shelter and help raise this generation of young men.