Penelope Griffith, MSW, LCSW, LICSW

Penelope Griffith, LICSW, is an accomplished social work leader with over 20 years of experience in family and child advocacy, specializing in community-based solutions to prevent violence and support family wellbeing. Since 1998, Ms. Griffith has directed the Family Services Division at Collaborative Solutions for Communities, where her visionary work in trauma-informed care and community collaboration has had a lasting impact on children, families, and communities in the Washington, D.C., area.

With a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, Ms. Griffith is a sought-after trainer and consultant in family group conferencing and solution-focused brief therapy. She has trained professionals locally, nationally, and internationally, from police officers to social workers, on effective intervention strategies that draw upon community strengths. Her extensive involvement with the American Humane Association further reflects her commitment to innovative, family-centered approaches in social work.

 

Ms. Griffith has pioneered the integration of Solution-Focused and Family Group Conferencing models, using these frameworks to address issues of community and gang violence. Her groundbreaking work includes launching the Gang Intervention Partnership and consulting on the District of Columbia’s citywide youth violence response program, which supports gang-involved youth and their families through restorative practices and healing circles.

 

Ms. Griffith’s contributions to social work have positioned her as a leader in violence intervention and family support, empowering communities to foster resilience, resolve conflicts, and build brighter futures.