Cathy Wu, LCSW-R, RPT-S, CASAC, Celebrates 13 Years at The Child Center

This month, we celebrate Cathy Wu’s 13 incredible years at The Child Center of NY. As a longtime leader at the Macari Family Wellness Center CCBHC and now a dedicated behavioral health operations leader, Cathy has made a lasting impact on the communities we serve. We sat down with her to reflect on her journey, her passion for mental health, and what continues to inspire her work each day.

The Child Center of NY: Can you share a bit about how you started your career here and what made you want to work at The Child Center?

Cathy Wu, LCSW-R, RPT-S, CASAC: When I first joined The Child Center of NY, I was looking for more than just a job — I wanted to be part of something meaningful. What drew me in was the mission: the idea that every child and every family deserves a chance to thrive. I was also attracted to the agency’s mission to support the under-served and immigrant populations. Being bilingual and bicultural has given me a unique opportunity to support and give back to the community that shaped me. All of this still resonates with me today.

Tell us about your role and what your day-to-day looks like.

I started my career here with a deep respect for structure, process, and care behind the scenes. Over the years, my role has evolved, but at its core, it’s always been about supporting the systems that support our communities. My day-to-day involves making sure the operational side flows smoothly — whether that’s coordinating projects, troubleshooting issues, or simply being a steady presence when things get busy or uncertain. There’s a quiet satisfaction in helping things run well so others can do their work with ease.

What are some of the most memorable moments, valuable lessons, or milestones from your time with us?

Looking back, some of the most memorable moments weren’t necessarily the big ones — but the small, human ones. A thank you from a team member. A grateful, warm smile from a client or a family member. A tough day that ended with a shared laugh. Navigating challenges that seemed impossible at first, only to see them become wins through teamwork and persistence. I’ve learned how much can happen behind the scenes that no one ever sees — and how valuable that work truly is.

How has the organization changed over the years, and what are the most significant transformations you’ve witnessed? What do you think is in the future for The Child Center?

The organization has grown in so many positive ways to better serve our community. There’s been more movement toward innovation, technology, and cross-team collaboration. It’s been inspiring to see us evolve, and I think the future holds even more alignment between mission and action, between heart and infrastructure. We’re building something that lasts, and I’m proud to be part of that foundation.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of working here for so long?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of working here has been the sense of quiet impact. I may not be front and center, but I know the work I do supports the bigger mission. It’s

been so fulfilling to be a part of all the growth. Not only the growth of the organization, but also witnessing the growth of clients’ therapeutic healing and staff’s professional development in their career path. It’s meaningful to be part of something that changes lives — even if my role is one of the steady, behind-the-scenes ones. That kind of purpose doesn’t fade.

Thirteen years later, I’m still here. Still learning. Still showing up. Still proud.