Celebrating Social Work Month: Lifeline's Unsung Heroes
Join hosts Herbie Newell and Dr. Rick Morton in this special episode of The Defender Podcast as they express gratitude to the unsung heroes of Lifeline Children's Services during Social Work Appreciation Month. Featuring inspiring conversations with Jessica Cumbers, a dedicated caseworker on the South Carolina team, and McKenzie Bussman, an International Social Worker on the Asia team, the episode delves into their journeys, motivations, and the impactful stories that fuel their passion for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Discover the unique challenges faced by these social work heroes and the most rewarding aspects of their roles. Gain insights into Lifeline's mission and hear valuable advice for aspiring social workers.
GUESTS
Jessica Cumbers serves as a caseworker on the South Carolina team. She is originally from South Carolina and attended the University of South Carolina, where she received both her bachelor's and master's degrees in social work. She also holds her social work license (LMSW) through the state of South Carolina.
McKenzie Bussman serves as the Program Manager of the Philippines Program and an International Social Worker on the Asia team. McKenzie graduated in 2017 from Samford University with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and from the University of Alabama with her master's in social work.
HOST
Herbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms.
CO-HOST
Dr. Rick Morton is the Vice President of Engagement at Lifeline Children's Services.
RESOURCES
Facing a wide-open career future can be daunting for students. They want to make an impact with their lives but may not know where to start.That’s why we created Preview Day--to give them a chance to learn about Lifeline while getting first-hand knowledge about positions and opportunities. Professionals will be on hand to talk through goals and dreams.
Come to Preview Day to meet our team, share some food, and win a few prizes! On Thursday, April 4, 2024 at our Birmingham office Visit lifelinechild.org/preview to get more information and register to attend.
LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICES
The mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples.
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Creators and Guests
Host
Herbie Newell
Herbie Newell serves as the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services, holds an MBA in Accounting from Samford University and brings years of experience from his work as an independent auditor at WAKM Companies, LLC. Serving as Lifeline's Executive Director since 2003, Herbie has significantly expanded international outreach, obtained licensure in 17 states, and led the establishment of the foster care arm. A passionate advocate, he co-founded (un)adopted in 2009, focusing on equipping orphaned children with life skills for community transformation. Herbie, also the author of "Image Bearers: Shifting from Pro-birth to Pro-Life," emphasizes that being pro-life extends beyond opposing abortion, urging a broader ethic that includes fighting for racial equality and embracing every individual with the love of Christ. Herbie and his wife, Ashley, reside in Birmingham, Alabama, and are the parents to three children.
Host
Rick Morton
As Senior Vice President of Engagement, Rick Morton shepherds the ministry’s outreach to individual, church, and organizational ministry partners as well as the ministry’s commitment to publishing resources that aid families and churches in discipling orphans and vulnerable children. Prior to Lifeline, Rick served for 15 years as a college and seminary professor, and he also served local churches in Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi. He is an accomplished writer and sought after speaker. Most notably, Rick is the co-author of the popular Orphanology: Awakening to Gospel-centered Adoption and Orphan Care and the author of KnowOrphans: Mobilizing the Church for Global Orphanology. Rick and his lovely wife Denise have been married for over 32 years, and they have 3 children, all of whom joined their family through international adoption. God has continued to grow their family, and he now enjoys the role of “Doc” to his precious granddaughter!
Guest
Jessica Cumbers
Jessica Cumbers serves as a caseworker on the South Carolina team. She is originally from South Carolina and attended the University of South Carolina, where she received both her bachelor's and master's degrees in social work. She also holds her social work license (LMSW) through the state of South Carolina.
Guest
McKenzie Bussman
McKenzie Bussman serves as an International Social Worker on the Asia team. McKenzie graduated in 2017 from Samford University with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and from the University of Alabama with her master's in social work.