Joel Gurss originates from Ohio, but has lived in Fresno, California, for over 35
years. He worked 30 years in social services, as a Social Worker and Supervisor in
Emergency Response and Family Reunification areas of Child Welfare, and was a key
member of the Family to Family Implementation team. He transferred in 2007 as a Supervisor
and promoted to Program Manager in Adult Services for In-Home Supportive Services
and Adult Protective Services. Joel was active for many years with the California
Welfare Directors’ Association (CWDA) Operations Committees and served more than once
as a Co-Chair. Now, as a Workforce Development Specialist for the Central California
Region for the Adult Services Training Academy, Joel coordinates foundational and
advanced training for county staff serving vulnerable adult populations. Joel has
a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Social Work from Miami University, and he earned
his Master of Public Administration Degree from National University. Along the way
he also worked in restaurants and healthcare claims processing, performed with community
theatre companies, and identifies as a ‘foodie’ and Cat Dad.
