Tony Ketchem is the Associate Director of Community-Based Services in the Southeast region for KVC Missouri. In his role, he provides supervision and management to a team of social workers/case managers, working with children and families in the foster care system. Tony oversees the operation of Community Based Programming in Southeast Missouri, including Foster Care Case Management and the Women’s Crisis Center. He is responsible for ensuring excellent program delivery and that program outcomes and measurements are met. Other key responsibilities include team building, staff support and community outreach. Tony has been with KVC for five years.

Tony earned his Bachelor’s in Education from Southeast Missouri State University and then his Master’s and Specialist degrees in Educational Administration from William Woods University.

Tony has more than ten years of experience working with youth, the community and the child welfare system. Prior to taking on the role of Associate Director, he worked as a foster care case manager.

Tony’s experience also includes work with youth and families in the community. He spent many years as a local park director, running the summer baseball/softball leagues for area youth. He has also been involved in various church youth groups.

Prior to his time in child welfare, Tony worked for several years as a high school teacher and coach. Tony and his wife were also foster parents for several years before ever working in the field. Having filled that role gives Tony a unique perspective in his current role.

“I spent many years of my adult life wandering around, trying to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up. Here I am, still not grown! However, I have discovered my purpose and my place. Working with and for others is what I was meant to do. Leading and guiding my staff to help those that are in crisis and or need has proven to be the most rewarding calling in the world. I truly pray that I never “grow up” and for the rest of my life I am able to make a difference serving those around me!” -Anthony (Tony) Ketchem