Editor's note: This feature originally appeared in the LDN 2026 20 Under 40 magazine which came out on July 29, 2026. For a copy of the magazine, go to 115 Broad Suite 101. By the time Catherine Benefield finished earning both a bachelor's degree in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling, one thing had become clear: her career would always center on helping others. Now 25, Benefield spends her days working closely with 12 high school boys at a local group foster home in LaGrange, where she works as a human services professional. While her official responsibilities include serving as a liaison between the youth and the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services, it represents only a small portion of what she does each day. "By far, my favorite part of my job is getting to interact with the boys," Benefield said. "Whether it is listening to them talk about their day, playing basketball with them, helping them work through problems or simply being someone they can look up to and rely on." “I truly value the relationships I have built with each of them. Being able to mentor and support them is the most rewarding part of what I do,” she added. Benefield helps them develop independent living skills, coordinates and transports them to medical and counseling appointments, supports their academic progress and encourages their involvement in meaningful activities within the community. "Most importantly, I serve as a mentor and consistent source of…
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