Today, The West Virginia Department of Human Services announced the launch of a comprehensive statewide stakeholder engagement tour and Advisory Committee aimed at improving the child welfare system. This initiative is scheduled to begin in mid-May and will foster open dialogue between the Department and key stakeholders throughout the state.
For the statewide tour, the agency has partnered with a team skilled in orchestrating and managing statewide engagement projects. The Department is committed to implementing a methodical approach, and will capture insights from various segments of the community, including service providers, foster parents, legislators, judiciary members, and other individuals involved with the child welfare system.
“This initiative underscores the Department’s commitment to ensuring transparency and continually improving the child welfare system in West Virginia,” said Secretary Alex Mayer. “By actively seeking and incorporating the input from stakeholders around the state, the Department aims to make meaningful strides toward enhancing the care and support provided to the state’s most vulnerable children and their families.”
Planned Engagement Opportunities Include:- Stakeholder Sessions: These sessions will be held in person at multiple locations across West Virginia, including Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, Wheeling, Morgantown, Martinsburg, Clarksburg, Elkins, and Beckley. These sessions are designed to gather a wide range of perspectives and foster community involvement.
- Judiciary-Specific Listening Sessions: Tailored sessions will engage members of the judiciary to explore the unique challenges and insights from a legal perspective on child welfare.
- Targeted Focus Groups: Conducted either virtually or in-person, these focus groups will involve critical populations such as state legislators, foster parents, and members of the judicial branch. The goal is to gain a deep understanding of the specific issues and suggestions from these key stakeholders.
Upon completing the engagements, the Department will compile and analyze the feedback received into a comprehensive report. This report will outline the key findings and provide actionable recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness and responsiveness of the child welfare system. The Department will establish an Advisory Committee, comprising department leadership, representatives of the judiciary and legislature, providers, and session facilitators, that will provide input to the Department on the implementation of the changes outlined in the report.