Goodhue County, MN (November, 2026) Goodhue County Health and Human Services (GCHHS) Employee Spotlights are an opportunity to inform and educate our residents on the many programs and services we offer while highlighting the HHS professionals who are the driving force behind the work.
Meet Katie Quinn, Social Services Supervisor for the Child and Family Team, overseeing intake assessment, outreach, and licensing—and our third GCHHS Employee Spotlight feature.
Katie began her career with Goodhue County in 1998 as the coordinator for the “Kids Handle with Care” program. In 1999, she moved into Social Services as a Child Protection Worker, beginning a long, impactful career serving children and families in Goodhue County.
What inspired you to pursue a career in health and human services and/or public service?
For Katie, the path into public service wasn’t something planned, it was something that naturally unfolded as she followed her interests and opportunities. Katie earned a degree in Developmental Psychology and taught special education before moving to the Goodhue County Extension Office. At the Extension Office, she was the Kids: Handle with Care program coordinator; the program brought together community partners to provide positive parenting education and teach children and youth problem-solving skills.
One day, Katie came across an internal posting for a child protection worker position in social services, and she decided to apply. From there, her career in human services took shape. Katie shared that both her teaching role and her work at the Extension Office connected deeply with what she loved most: helping families, supporting children, and fostering safe, healthy growth. Her current role brings together all those experiences.
Katie noted that community involvement has always been part of her life. Growing up, her parents were very active in local events, especially amateur baseball in Red Wing. Stepping up to meet community needs felt natural. She describes her career path as something she “accidentally fell into”, but one that fully aligns with her long-standing desire to help families and serve her community.
Who or what motivates you on challenging days in your role?
On challenging days, Katie finds motivation in the meaningful impact the work has on families, youth, and children. Katie shared that it is a privilege to be trusted during moments when people are at their most vulnerable, and it is deeply rewarding to support individuals as they strengthen their own voice and self advocacy. Witnessing families navigate difficult circumstances, build resilience, and reach important milestones is an experience Katie describes as truly priceless.
Katie also noted being inspired by her co workers—the compassion, joy, and kindness they bring to their work create an environment that offers encouragement and reinforces why this work matters. Their dedication continually motivates Katie to show up with purpose, empathy, and commitment.
WHAT WE DO
What are some common misconceptions people have about your program?
At GCHHS, Katie truly values the commitment to meeting people where they are. Katie knows that government programs can feel overwhelming, and that public perception often focuses on the programs people find intimidating.
In Katie’s work, HHS professionals want families to understand that child protection exists to help them succeed. Parents fundamentally want their children to thrive as responsible and respectful members of the community—even when barriers make that difficult. Katie is grateful to work for an agency that sees people for the wonderful human beings they are and provides support and opportunities for continued growth.
Although overcoming the stereotype of child protection as a family disruptor can be challenging, Katie has seen firsthand that disruption usually begins long before their team becomes involved, and being part of a family’s reconciliation is truly meaningful. Katie’s hope is that, by the time she retires, the community will view child protection not as an adversary but as a trusted resource.
LEARN MORE ABOUT US
Each month, we will be highlighting a different HHS professional across our department and the services/programs they provide to Goodhue County residents and communities.
For more information about our programs and services, contact us Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., by phone at 651-385-3200 or in person at 426 West Avenue, Red Wing, MN 55066. Visit our webpage: goodhuecountymn.gov/hhs or our social media at Instagram: @goodhuecountyhhs and Facebook: www.facebook.com/gchhs/. For Employment Opportunities, visit https://goodhuecountymn.gov/employment/.
