Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiona Pharr.
Hi Kiona, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started with Palmer Home for Children six years ago. During my time at Palmer Home, I have had the opportunity to work within each program we have that serves children, young adults, and families. Currently I am the Senior Director of Children’s Programs. Children’s Programs consist of four different programs: Campus Care where children ages 0-17 are served by group home living with houseparent couples, Transitional Care that serves young adults age 18 up to 24, Family Care which serves incarcerated, expectant, mothers in Nashville, Tennessee, and lastly we have our Foster Care/Mentor Program. I began as a case manager in Transitional Care when it was first beginning. It was a pleasure to be part of that program from the ground up. I have worked my way around all programs until I recently became Senior Director of Children’s Programs. Palmer Home for Children has been in existence for many years. We began our 130th year of serving children and families in 2025.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Palmer Home is a nonprofit, Christian Ministry social service organization. Those combos are always unique. As with any work you do, there are hard days and there are great days. At the end of the day, even if the path has not been smooth, I firmly believe the Lord has placed us all where we are meant to be and serve His will.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a social worker by degree. My social service experience comes my work with the state child welfare system. Child welfare is where my heart work lies as well as my experience. To be able to serve at a ministry as a social worker is something I am very thankful for. At Palmer Home I serve as the Senior Director for Children’s Programs. This means I oversee the day to day operations of the staff and four programs we have at Palmer Home. I have worked in all areas as a case manager, a director for individual programs, and now senior director of all programs at Palmer Home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.palmerhome.org
