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by Shelby Mathis

Keisha Lee gained her footing in the world of law enforcement over 18 years ago working for Attorney Mickey McDermott, however she would soon discover her passion one year later in the division of Juvenile Probation.

Lee said that while she enjoyed her work as an Administrative Support Assistant for McDermott, she longed for more. A similar position became available within the Lowndes County Juvenile Probation Office and she rose to the opportunity, climbing the ladder and delving into a field she grew to truly love.

“Not everyone is afforded the ability to grow up in a loving and nurturing environment,” Lee said. “Many children and families throughout this region don’t have access to the same educational, financial resources and ability to travel beyond their community as we do. Therefore, I believe it’s my responsibility to offer as much insight about things that are helpful to a child’s mental health, educational development and legally help them to understand and navigate how to address issues they experience.”

With only one Juvenile Probation Officer in Lowndes County, Lee acknowledged that her career can sometimes be overwhelming, but said that knowing she is living her passion makes it all worthwhile.

“My favorite part of my job is interacting with the children of Lowndes County, not just those who may be receiving services from us,” Lee beamed. “I love setting up programs or events in the community and at schools because I want to hear from them. Because I’m so passionate about what I do, I want to know what their needs are so that I can assist them. I want them to know that there are passionate people in this county who care about them.”

Understanding that her field of work can sometimes be confusing to others, Lee discussed just a few of the topics that she feels the public can sometimes misunderstand about the role she plays within the community “Sometimes I don’t think people understand what my job entails,” Lee said. “I’m on call 24/7, 365 unless I’m sick or on vacation… and sometimes I’m still working. I’m the intake officer for complaints and petitions. I manage a caseload, attend court hearings, conduct field visits to homes, schools and facilities, attend various agencies meetings to ensure we are servicing the children of Lowndes to our maximum capacity, organize community and school events, and much more.”

Lee ensured Lowndes County residents that she is here for the long haul to be of service to her neighbors in need, and offered a sentiment of trust to the community.

“I am a product of this community and I believe that I have been called to be a source and resource for all,” Lee said. “I take my responsibilities as a Juvenile Probation Officer seriously. The time it takes to listen to an individual’s plight is minimal.”