Community Advocacy & Resource Enhancement
The Zebulon Police Department CARE Unit is a vital new program designed to address youth trauma by providing mental health resources and support to children who have experienced traumatic incidents. Our mission is to offer comprehensive care that helps young individuals overcome trauma, fostering a healthier community.
Our Approach
When responding to an incident, our officers are trained to identify and refer any children who have experienced trauma to the CARE Unit. This specialized team, composed of two dedicated social workers, provides the necessary guidance and support to help these young individuals navigate and heal from their experiences.
By taking a holistic approach to trauma, the CARE Unit aims to:
Create a safer, healthier environment for Zebulon's children
- Lower juvenile crime rates
- Reduce recidivism
- Break cycles of trauma at their source
If you know a child in need of assistance or would like more information, please contact us here.
Meet the CARE Unit Team
Emily Edwards, LCSW
C.A.R.E. Unit Social Worker
Background
Emily Edwards is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16 years of experience supporting children and families through challenging life circumstances. Raised in Winston-Salem, NC, Emily has built her career around compassion, empathy, and advocacy—working in both schools and medical settings to help youth and families navigate trauma and crisis.
Education & Experience
Emily earned her Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin and bachelor's degree in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. During her undergraduate studies, she spent a semester abroad in Valparaíso, Chile, an experience that deepened her cultural awareness and strengthened her Spanish language skills. She is bilingual in English and Spanish, allowing her to connect meaningfully with diverse communities and provide personalized support where it’s needed most.
Personal Interests
Outside of work, Emily is a passionate runner, camper, and quilter. She volunteers her time coaching elementary-aged girls in running and supports grieving children through a weekend grief camp. Her dedication to healing and growth extends far beyond the workplace.
Josefa Gonzalez-Parral
Intern- Master’s Degree in Social Work
Background
Josefa Gonzalez-Parral is a dedicated and community-driven professional from Raleigh, NC, with a growing career rooted in justice, advocacy, and social impact. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Josefa brings a bicultural perspective to her work and has built a strong foundation in the legal field.
Education & Experience
A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Josefa holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at North Carolina Central University. Her experience includes serving as a magistrate for Wake County, where she developed a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals, particularly youth, within the justice system. This experience has fueled her passion for community engagement and restorative practices. As she advances in her graduate studies, Josefa remains committed to creating positive change in her community. Her long-term goal is to open a rehabilitation shelter for juveniles, providing support, structure, and second chances for young people navigating difficult circumstances.
Personal Interests
Outside of her academic and professional commitments, Josefa enjoys exploring new cities, discovering local coffee shops, and staying active through fitness.
Abigail Bateski, BSW
Intern- Master’s Degree in Social Work
Background
Abigail (Abby) Bateski, from Concord, North Carolina has always been guided by a deep passion for supporting others with dignity, compassion, and empathy. Holding a bachelor’s degree in social work, she brings extensive experience working with children and their families. Abigail’s commitment to trauma-informed care fuels her mission to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, nurturing environment, free from abuse and violence, and is supported in every aspect of their development.
Education & Experience
Abby earned her Bachelor of Social Work from North Carolina State University and is currently pursuing a master’s in social work at the same institution. Her experience includes working with children impacted by abuse and neglect through her undergraduate social work internship with a local agency supporting survivors of domestic violence.
Personal Interests
Abby enjoys playing and watching sports, specifically football and baseball. She enjoys being anywhere in nature where she can unwind and relax, as well as anywhere near the beach. She drives to serve others through advocacy and purpose!