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Danielle Weisberg is a busy woman. Her title is proof enough: director of child welfare services and the Children’s Advocacy Center at WIHD. After 16 years in social work in New York City, she was hired by WIHD three years ago, when she decided it was time to move her career closer to home.
Weisberg, a member at Club Fit Briarcliff, plays a critical role in Westchester County’s foster care system, overseeing close to a dozen services for kids and families in and at risk of foster care, including those in the post-adoption phase, and facilitating the investigation of alleged physical and sexual abuse. This part of her job involves working closely with law enforcement, CPS, mental health specialists and other providers, in addition to her oversight of a large staff of social workers, psychologists, physicians and therapists.
The work Weisberg does is so important to so many people, but so is quality time with her family. Club Fit helps her achieve that balance. She joined Club Fit about six years ago, and is enjoying what the club has to offer, including family time and a chance to connect with others in the community, something she has a hard time accomplishing with her busy work schedule.
Husband Dan is a longtime Club Fit member who also swims and competes in triathlons. He’s also a volunteer member of the Briarcliff Manor Fire Department and a participant in the club’s popular Chief’s Challenge program. Daughter Anya, nine, has taken swim and tennis lessons at Club Fit, and has also attended Tennis Camp.
“It’s great to come in and run in to neighbors, parents from my daughter’s school, and other acquaintances I wouldn’t get to touch base with on a regular basis,” she says.
Weisberg also enjoys spinning and the fitness center, where she never has trouble finding a machine. But it’s something else about Club Fit that impresses Danielle the most.
“It is such a part of the local community. They go out of their way to help.”
One example is the club’s presence at Step Up for Kids, a Children’s Advocacy Center event held at Westchester Medical Center this past September, which helps to raise awareness of the prevalence and the realities of child abuse in New York State. Club Fit instructor Judy Slominski ran a Zumba class for participants that was a big hit, particularly because of Judy’s enthusiasm, according to Danielle.
This month, Club Fit is also running a Toy Drive to benefit the children Weisberg serves at WIHD from those at risk of placement to those in the post-adoption phase.
“I hope people realize how much Club Fit really does for our community and those in need,” says Weisberg.
“What they are doing for our kids through the Toy Drive is a small gesture to some, but will make a huge difference to our kids.”
Look for boxes at the entrance to Club Fit to deposit your donations; toys will be accepted through Dec. 10. Thanks in advance from the kids served by our child welfare programs.
For more information, please visit clubfit.com/blog/december-inspirational-story/
