Community Engagement

Engaging communities in child well-being

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is transforming the Child Welfare Division. Our Vision for Transformation emphasizes that our work is centered on supporting, preserving and strengthening families. Our collaboration with family-serving partners, like you, is critical in providing services to families and ensuring the foundation for thriving communities. Partnerships can sustain successful approaches, identify thoughtful solutions and create noticeable improvements in the lives of Oregon children and families.

We encourage you to connect with us and become part of the transformation.

Community Voice

Parker family stands and smiles while receiving award

Adoption advocates win national Adoption Excellence award

Resource and adoptive parents Brian and Josie Parker were recently acknowledged in Washington, D.C. with an Administration for Children and Families award in the family contribution category. Awards are presented each year as part of National Adoption Month. The Parkers were acknowledged for their work helping children and families by writing, illustrating and publishing children’s books highlighting the experiences of kids of color experiencing foster care and adoption.

Read the press release to learn more about their work.

Previous Community Voice partner highlights are available in each edition of the Community Connections newsletter.

Vision for Transformation in action

Pilot sites for new approach

District Manager Maurita Johnson stands outside the Oregon Department of Human Services location in Klamath County

The ODHS Child Welfare Division announced the Vision for Transformation Roadmap in 2022, changing how the systems approach and handle the cases of families involved in services. Three districts were selected to serve as pilots for the new program - Douglas, Klamath and Multnomah. "Really, our focus is how can we support families and keep kids safe and keep them out of the child welfare system," Klamath District Manager Maurita Johnson said.

Read the full story from the Herald and News.

Caseworkers receive award

Alex Ronning stands outside smiling, wearing a black jacket and blue shirt, with trees and blue sky in the background

ODHS recently named two recipients of the 2023 Tom Moan Memorial Award (awarded in 2022). Alexandra (Alex) Ronning from Deschutes County and Amanda Catchpole from Columbia County received the award. Awardees are chosen through nominations from families, community organizations, Child Welfare Division employees and organizational partners.

Learn more about the statewide Tom Moan Memorial Award.