Golden Heart Awards 2025 Honoree

TERRILL CARNEY

Terrill Carney is a seasoned social worker, advocate and policy specialist with over 17 years of experience working to support vulnerable populations, particularly children and families involved in the foster care system and with special needs.  With a Master in Social Work and Master of Arts in Public Policy. He has built a career focused on helping families navigate complex social systems and access essential resources.

In 2006, Terrill began his professional journey as a Social Service Advocate at the Defenders Association of Philadelphia. During his tenure, Terrill became the voice for children who had suffered abuse and neglect, working tirelessly to represent their needs and concerns. They worked alongside attorneys to drive policy changes and were instrumental in the creation of initiatives aimed at supporting older youth transitioning out of the foster care system. Their passion for policy and social services led to the implementation of key programs, ensuring that youth had access to vital resources during their transition into adulthood.

In addition to their work at the Defenders Association, Terrill interned for State Representative Jewell Williams of the 197th Legislative District in Philadelphia, where he helped constituents navigate city and government resources, particularly focusing on individuals returning to the community after incarceration.

Currently, Terrill serves as the Program Director for Philly Connect. He also still works with a youth that he worked with from the foster care system Jaheim High tower. Terrill previously served as a key figure at Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), where they founded the Educational Decision Making Program. This program aims to address the systemic challenges faced by children in foster care, advocating for services that help them successfully reintegrate into their communities. With a deep commitment to social justice, Terrill has dedicated their career to advocating for vulnerable youth and families, combining their expertise in social services with a passion for policy development.