Podcasts about Social services

A Conversation About Community, Connection, and Caring for Kids in Need When Heather Frost joins Janet Michael on The Valley Today, she brings a message that hits close to home: hundreds of children across the Shenandoah Valley desperately need stable, caring families. As Foster Parent Coordinator for Embrace Treatment Foster Care, Heather sees firsthand how the shortage of local foster homes affects vulnerable kids throughout our region. The Scope of the Problem The statistics paint a sobering picture. At any given time, Virginia has approximately 5,000 children in foster care. Remarkably, 40% of these children are teenagers—the age group that proves hardest to place. Breaking this down to our local communities reveals the true scale of the need. Frederick County and Winchester together care for 120-150 children at any time, while Shenandoah County serves 40-60 kids. Even smaller Clarke County has 15-25 children in the system annually. Meanwhile, larger counties like Loudoun regularly have 250-300 children awaiting placement. Furthermore, the consequences of inadequate foster care resources extend far beyond childhood. More than 1,000 young people age out of Virginia's foster care system each year without finding a permanent family. This failure dramatically increases their risk for homelessness, unemployment, and involvement in the justice system—outcomes that could be prevented with stable family support. Why Location Matters Heather emphasizes a crucial point that many people overlook: where a foster child lives makes an enormous difference in their recovery and development. When children must be placed far from their home communities due to a lack of local foster families, they lose vital connections. They leave behind their schools, their therapists, their neighborhoods, and often their extended family members who still play important roles in their lives. "The research shows these things really matter in terms of getting over the trauma that the kids have gone through," Heather explains. Maintaining these connections helps children recover faster and build resilience. Consequently, Embrace actively seeks foster families throughout the region—from Winchester and surrounding counties to Harrisonburg and even Loudoun County—to keep kids rooted in familiar territory. What Treatment Foster Care Really Means Unlike traditional foster care through the Department of Social Services, Embrace provides treatment-level care for children with more complex needs. These kids often face challenges like ADHD, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or post-traumatic stress. However, Heather quickly dispels any notion that foster parents must navigate these challenges alone. Instead, Embrace treats foster parents as integral members of a treatment team. The agency provides extensive initial certification training, then continues with monthly sessions covering new strategies, specific situations, and emerging best practices. Additionally, foster parents receive 24/7 support—whether they need a phone consultation or an in-person visit. This comprehensive approach transforms foster parents from isolated caregivers into supported professionals working alongside schools, social services, and community partners. Breaking Down Barriers and Misconceptions Throughout the conversation, Heather addresses common concerns that prevent people from considering foster care. First, she tackles the financial question head-on. All foster children receive Medicaid coverage, eliminating worries about medical expenses. Moreover, foster parents receive stipends to cover clothing and other necessities, though Heather acknowledges these don't cover every expense. Community support, like the Front Royal Chamber's annual fundraiser for foster families, helps fill remaining gaps. Second, Heather confronts the fear that potential foster parents lack the necessary skills or experience. "We're not looking for perfect people," she emphasizes. "We're just looking for people who will show up, who will be there, who want to help children." The certification process takes approximately 90 days and includes about six weeks of training classes, which can be completed virtually or in person based on family preferences. The Power of Stability and Connection Perhaps the most compelling part of the conversation centers on how dramatically children can transform when given stability and structure. Heather acknowledges that many foster children arrive labeled as "difficult" or "hard to manage." Nevertheless, she's witnessed countless times how these same children soften and thrive once they realize someone will consistently show up for them. "Just having someone who cared about them" makes all the difference, Heather notes, recalling stories from community members who approach her at events like Apple Blossom to share their own foster care experiences. Janet reinforces this point, observing that labels hurt children and that removing those labels allows kids to flourish in ways that might seem impossible at first. Importantly, Heather doesn't sugarcoat the experience. "I'm not gonna say it's all butterflies and rainbows a hundred percent of the time," she admits. Yet she describes the profound reward of watching relationships develop between foster children and their families. "When a child and a foster parent have that relationship and you get to watch it grow, it's just very beautiful." From Foster Care to Forever Families The conversation also explores how foster placements can evolve into permanent adoptions. Embrace dual-certifies foster parents for both fostering and adoption, creating flexibility as situations develop. Sometimes a child initially expected to reunify with their biological family cannot do so. In these cases, foster parents who've built strong relationships over months or years often choose to adopt, providing the permanent stability these children desperately need. This possibility becomes especially meaningful for teenagers. As Janet points out, raising any teenager presents challenges—foster or biological. However, the opportunity to guide a young person from a traumatic past toward a stable future offers rewards that transcend typical parenting experiences. The Urgent Call to Action As the conversation concludes, Heather issues a straightforward invitation: if you're even slightly curious about foster care, reach out for a conversation. There's no obligation, no cost, and no pressure. Visit embracetfc.com to learn more and indicate your preferred method of contact. The agency will respond according to your comfort level, whether you're just exploring the idea or ready to begin classes. Ultimately, the message resonates clearly throughout the conversation: the Shenandoah Valley's foster children need local families who represent their communities and cultures. They need people who will maintain their connections to schools, therapists, and extended family. Most importantly, they need adults who will simply show up—consistently, reliably, and with genuine care. The need is great, but so is the potential for impact. As Heather reminds listeners, foster parents don't need to be perfect. They just need to be present.

On this edition of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, we tackle two critical fronts of the labor movement in 2026: the life-and-death stakes of public healthcare staffing in California and a high-level analysis of national economic and political instability. Segment 1: Solano County's Mental Health "Emergency" Solano County's behavioral health workforce isn't warning of a future risk—they are describing a present-tense catastrophe. Sarah Soroken, a licensed marriage and family therapist and SEIU Local 1021 member, joins the podcast to discuss why 2,000 county workers recently walked out on a two-day strike. The Vacancy Gap: With 200 open positions in Health and Social Services, remaining staff are facing "moral injury" and burnout while patients face dangerous waitlists. The Human Cost: Why union-driven staffing demands are a public health issue in a county that ranks 15th out of 58 in California suicide rates. Budgetary Myths: A look at union "deep dives" into county finances that challenge claims of a financial crisis. Segment 2: Union Rights at a Breaking Point Retired International President of the Machinists Union (IAMAW), Tom Buffenbarger, provides a sobering diagnosis of a country he says has slipped into a 1960s-style crisis—only worse. The Investigation Gap: Buffenbarger explains why he trusts state leadership, such as Minnesota AG Keith Ellison, over federal investigators following recent tragedies in Minneapolis. The Tariff Price Tag: How trade brinkmanship with Canada is hitting the grocery store (milk, eggs, cereal) and industrial supply chains of working families in the U.S. Organizing the Future: Why the Young Workers March on Washington (Feb. 7) represents a "bright spot" for a generation looking for stability through union rights. Resources & Next Steps Join the Movement: Visit goiam.org for details on the Young Workers March. Follow the Fight: See more SEIU 1021 and IAMAW stories on the America's Work Force Union Podcast.

Minnesota's social-services fraud, March for Life leaders weigh in on Trump's pro-life record, travel restrictions on international adoptions, and former congressman Steve Pearce's vision of leadership. Plus, Cal Thomas on Mitt Romney's tax argument, AI hallucination, and the Thursday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Pensacola Christian College. Academic excellence, biblical worldview, affordable cost. go.pcci.edu/worldAnd from the Joshua Program at St. Dunstan's Academy in the Blue Ridge Mountains: work, prayer, and adventure for young men. stdunstansacademy.org

Joyce talks about the fraud findings in Minnesota and how foreigners have come into America and found a way to leverage our social services systems for the benefit of them and family members in their home country. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jan N. DeFehr is an associate professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Winnipeg and an associate of The Taos Institute and a member of the Faculty for Palestine, Manitoba. She is also a member of the York University Mad Studies Hub. Before entering academia, she spent many years as a clinical social worker, working alongside people who were trying to make sense of their distress within, and often in spite of, the mental health system. Her teaching, research, and course development focus on building public access to critical analyses of that system, drawing on the work of clients and survivors of psychiatry, practitioners, and scholars. Her new book, A Critical Mental Health Primer: Towards Informed Choice in Social Services, Education, and Healthcare(Canadian Scholars, 2025), offers a clear and accessible map of critical mental health scholarship. The book examines scientific critiques of diagnosis, the potential harms of psychiatric labels, the lack of transparency and procedural justice in services, anti-colonial critiques of mental health premises and practices, and the evidence on psychiatric drugs and the DSM. It also gathers non-pathologizing ways of helping that center relational, dialogical, anti-oppressive, and anti-colonial approaches, along with concrete tools for informed choice and everyday support outside of the dominant medical model. In our conversation, we talk about how Jan came to adopt critical perspectives, why she sees access to critical mental health knowledge as a prerequisite for ethical practice, and what it looks like when organizations take informed choice seriously. We move through the key chapters of the book, explore its implications for social workers, educators, and health professionals, and look at how communities can build forms of care that do not depend on diagnosis or coercion. *** Thank you for being with us to listen to the podcast and read our articles this year. MIA is funded entirely by reader donations. If you value MIA, please help us continue to survive and grow. https://www.madinamerica.com/donate/ To find the Mad in America podcast on your preferred podcast player, click here: https://pod.link/1212789850 © Mad in America 2026. Produced by James Moore https://www.jmaudio.org

Episode Overview: Fraud in Minnesota's Social Services: Federal prosecutors have uncovered widespread fraud in Minnesota's social safety programs, with fewer than 100 individuals exploiting pandemic-era funds, resulting in over $1 billion in misappropriations. The lack of effective oversight allowed fraudulent activities to flourish, leading to significant repercussions for the Somali community in Minnesota. The "blast radius" effect highlights how a few bad actors can have widespread negative impacts on an entire community, affecting funding and perception. Flipcause Bankruptcy Fallout: Flipcause, a fundraising platform, has filed for bankruptcy, owing over $29 million to more than 3,200 nonprofits. The insolvency raises questions about the platform's financial management practices, emphasizing the need for nonprofits to maintain control over their payment processing systems. Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's Strategic Shift: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative has withdrawn support from Forward Us, an immigration nonprofit, citing a strategic focus on science and education. This decision reflects a broader trend of philanthropic organizations re-evaluating their commitments to social justice initiatives.

Episode Overview: Fraud in Minnesota's Social Services: Federal prosecutors have uncovered widespread fraud in Minnesota's social safety programs, with fewer than 100 individuals exploiting pandemic-era funds, resulting in over $1 billion in misappropriations. The lack of effective oversight allowed fraudulent activities to flourish, leading to significant repercussions for the Somali community in Minnesota. The "blast radius" effect highlights how a few bad actors can have widespread negative impacts on an entire community, affecting funding and perception. Flipcause Bankruptcy Fallout: Flipcause, a fundraising platform, has filed for bankruptcy, owing over $29 million to more than 3,200 nonprofits. The insolvency raises questions about the platform's financial management practices, emphasizing the need for nonprofits to maintain control over their payment processing systems. Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's Strategic Shift: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative has withdrawn support from Forward Us, an immigration nonprofit, citing a strategic focus on science and education. This decision reflects a broader trend of philanthropic organizations re-evaluating their commitments to social justice initiatives.

(The Center Square) – Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and the state attorney general were either “complicit” in the now-estimated $9 billion of social services fraud that has taken place in the state in recent years or “asleep at the wheel,” according to Republican Rep. James Comer, R-Ky. “How could they allow this massive fraud to go on for years? This is why we're here today. We must expose this theft of taxpayer dollars and hold everybody accountable who let it happen,” Comer said. Comer chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, which on Wednesday held the first of at least two scheduled hearings looking into the fraud that has occurred in Minnesota and how to respond. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's been more than a year since Gov. Mike Kehoe announced that state government veteran Jessica Bax would lead the Missouri Department of Social Services. It's arguably the most challenging state governmental department in Missouri that oversees Medicaid, benefits like SNAP and TANF and the state's Children Division. Bax joined “the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air” to talk about the big changes ahead for the state's Medicaid program – and a plan to help retain investigators looking into allegations of child abuse and neglect.

On the latest episode of the Politically Speaking Hour on St. Louis on the Air, STLPR's Jason Rosenbaum and Sarah Kellogg preview the 2026 Missouri General Assembly session. Rosenbaum also talks with Department of Social Services director Jessica Bax about her first year on the job – and plan that could pay child abuse investigators more money.

This episode kicks off with the federal government freezing $10 billion in social service funds—including child care and TANF grants—to five Democratic-led states (California, New York, Illinois, Minnesota, and Colorado) over alleged misuse and fraud. Officials cite systemic misuse and say the freeze ensures proper spending, while critics call it political retribution and warn it risks undermining supports for low-income families in these states. Next, Cardi B fires back at blogger Tasha K during an online showdown tied to new allegations involving her boyfriend, NFL star Stefon Diggs. Tasha K evoked witness tampering, and Cardi strongly denied the claim, threatening legal action over continued harassment—reminding fans that Tasha still owes her a six-figure defamation payout. In a lighter segment, Chloe Bailey clapped back on Insta Live when a troll criticized her weight—calling it “getting big.” She snapped, “Even if I was… what about it?” before telling them to “send a pic” and reminding fans that “stress got my waist snatched”—firmly reclaiming control over her body image. Finally, the White House has reaffirmed interest in Greenland, calling its control a national security priority. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted the U.S. is considering a “range of options” including military force—a statement that triggered bipartisan and international backlash, with many allies denouncing any threat to Denmark’s sovereignty. Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode kicks off with the federal government freezing $10 billion in social service funds—including child care and TANF grants—to five Democratic-led states (California, New York, Illinois, Minnesota, and Colorado) over alleged misuse and fraud. Officials cite systemic misuse and say the freeze ensures proper spending, while critics call it political retribution and warn it risks undermining supports for low-income families in these states. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venezuela remains on edge as the Trump administration preps to brief lawmakers about the US operation. We'll tell you how House Democrats are marking five years since the January 6th Capital riot. Five Democratic-led states are facing billions of dollars in funding cuts to social services and child care. More details have emerged about the Swiss bar where dozens of people died in a fire. Plus, the US' worst flu season in a quarter of a century.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New York  City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani announces new members of his incoming administration, including Deputy Mayor for Health & Human Services; States receive the first allotments from a $50 billion federal rural health care fund; Federal investigation into alleged multi-billion-dollar fraud of Minnesota state services expands, with some Republicans calling on Democratic Gov. Tim Walz to resign. We will talk about it with Axios breaking news reporter Herb Scribner (16); U.S. pledges $2 billion in for United Nations humanitarian aid, down sharply from previous years; China's Foreign Minister criticizes a record $11 billion in U.S. weapons sales to Taiwan as China conducts military drills simulating a blockade of Taiwan; more performers cancel scheduled dates at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC after President Trump's name was added to the institution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Justin Barclay filling in for Glenn. Hundreds of millions of dollars laundered in Minnesota in one of the biggest fraud scandals in history.  Gov. Walz defends Somali community. Alirezah Jafarzadeh, Deputy Director of the U.S. office of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, joins to discuss Iran declaring 'full-scale war' on the U.S., Israel and Europe. Scott Singer, Mayor of Boca Raton, joins to discuss his run for Congress and the important issues facing America today. Massive fraud uncovered in Ohio by Somali Immigrants. Mike Lindell joins to discuss his run for Governor of Minnesota and recent fraud uncovered. Gavin Newsom releases video wishing everyone 'Happy Kwanzaa'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After an egregious case of elder abuse in Griswold, CT, we spoke with Dorian Long, the Social Services Program Administration Manager with the Department of Social Services about detecting elder abuse and reporting it correctly.

This week on North Port Now, we're sharing important holiday updates, major transportation improvements, and a behind-the-scenes look at how everyday habits can impact our utility systems.We begin with holiday facility closures and solid waste collection changes so you can plan ahead during the Christmas holiday.Next, we look ahead to long-anticipated I-75 interchange improvements at Sumter and Toledo Blade boulevards. FDOT construction begins in January 2026, and residents are encouraged to attend an upcoming pre-construction meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 6, from 4–6 p.m. at Suncoast Technical College to learn more and ask questions.We also preview North Port Fire Rescue's Open House at the Training Tower on Saturday, Jan. 10, a free, family-friendly event featuring live demonstrations, activities, and more.Plus, starting January 1, 2026, the City's Social Services Division will expand to provide direct assistance with Florida Department of Children and Families programs—making it easier for residents to access help locally. Appointments can be made by calling 941-429-3700, or by visiting the Family Service Center at 6919 Outreach Way. Learn more at NorthPortFL.gov/SocialServices.Finally, Utilities Compliance Coordinator Treyce Lukasek joins us to explain FOG—fats, oils, and grease—what it is, why it's harmful to pipes, and how residents can help prevent costly clogs and protect the environment.We hope you have a very happy holiday, North Port. Stay informed, stay engaged, and stay connected with North Port Now.

In this episode, recorded on December 19, 2025, we examine the latest retail sales, employment, and CPI reports. Retail sales were flat on the month, underscoring a continued pullback in consumer spending as sentiment deteriorates and labor-market momentum slows.The employment report was more troubling than the headline figures suggest. The unemployment rate rose to 4.6% in November, while payrolls fell in October before rebounding modestly in November. A closer inspection, however, reveals a far weaker underlying picture. Year to date, job gains in Health Care and Social Services have exceeded total payroll growth, implying that employment outside those sectors has declined outright. After adjusting for the outsized contribution from health care and the Federal Reserve's estimated 60,000 monthly overstatement, we estimate that non–Health Care payrolls have fallen by more than 500,000 this year.We also discuss the latest CPI report, whose construction raises serious questions. Evidence increasingly suggests that the Bureau of Labor Statistics imputed zero inflation for missing observations, including within the Shelter component, which accounts for roughly one-third of the index. If correct, this would render the headline inflation figures deeply misleading. That said, we also explore the counterfactual: what if the data are, in fact, accurate?We hope you enjoy the episode and thank you for listening.

In this episode, we explore how TRANSFORM has helped promote a ‘culture of social protection' across Africa, shaping how civil servants approach their roles and how institutions adapt to address lifecycle challenges using TRANSFORM's building-block methodology. The conversations highlight the initiative's leadership effects and its influence at national and sub-national levels, while also examining how it has supported the integration of social protection into the priorities of the African regional bodies and governments. This is the second of the three-part TRANSFORM Podcast Series, which will present the initiative's achievements 10 years since its inception through conversations with guests from the continent. In case you missed the first episode of the TRANSFORM series, you can access it here: Ep. 1 | Social Protection Capacity Building in Africa: 10 Years of TRANSFORM Hosted by Abidemi Coker, a passionate TRANSFORM Master Trainer. Meet our guests for episode 2: Thebuho Kavubya, District Social Welfare Officer, Ministry of Community Development and Social Services of Zambia. Ivan Oscar Langa, Social Protection and Policy Specialist and a TRANSFORM Master Trainer from Mozambique. For our testimonial segment, we welcome Felix Mwenge, TRANSFORM Coordinator and the Technical Officer for TRANSFORM and Knowledge Management at the ILO Country Office for Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. To learn more and explore how TRANSFORM can be tailored to your own context and how you can get involved with the initiative, go to https://transformsp.org and contact transform_socialprotection@ilo.org.

Today from SDPB - the Department of Social Services and the Attorney General's office are at odds over how opioid settlement dollars should be used, some schools facing financial sanctions receive their fate from legislators and a look at overdose deaths in the state's prison system.

When the newest cohort of the Front Royal–Warren County Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership Program filed into the conference room, they didn't expect their first assignment to involve a radio interview. Yet chamber director Niki Foster insists that discomfort is part of the process. As she tells Valley Today host Janet Michael, leadership requires stepping outside routine—and this program is designed to stretch participants in the best possible ways. A Program Built to Strengthen Community Now more than 25 years old, the Chamber's leadership program remains one of the region's most impactful professional development opportunities. Since 1999, it has graduated nearly 300 people—small-business owners, town staff, nonprofit leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, and engaged residents. Niki explains that the program offers a "wide-angle lens" view of Front Royal and Warren County. Participants explore how local government works, how social services operate, what drives economic growth, how nonprofits collaborate, and what challenges shape daily life in the community. Moreover, she emphasizes that the program serves the community just as much as the participants. Graduates leave with accurate knowledge, real-world context, and the confidence to correct misinformation that spreads on social media or in neighborhood groups. A Class Filled With Motivation—and Curiosity As Janet goes around the room, the class reveals a diverse mix of personal motivations: Nonprofit Leaders Looking for Deeper Understanding Andrea Ross, representing Warren County Habitat for Humanity, hopes to better understand the inner workings of the community she serves. Rachel Ross, newly relocated and working with Warren County Department of Social Services, wants to connect locally and learn the landscape. Doris Lockwood, a 20-year military veteran, appreciates the chance to see "how the community works—and sometimes doesn't." Small-Business Owners Seeking Connection Janet Counts, co-owner of Potomac Plumbing & Gas, supports women in business and wants a clearer picture of how her business fits into the local ecosystem. Jennifer Nicholson, owner of Jennerations Hair Studio & Spa, enrolled because friends raved about the program's impact. Local Government Employees Strengthening Their Roots Eric Jorgenson and Megan Clark of the Town of Front Royal see the program as a way to understand community needs more fully and collaborate across departments. Educators & Workforce Developers Expanding Their View Anna Walton from Blue Ridge Technical Center wants to form informed opinions—not guesses—about local issues. Lisa Mauck, an adjunct professor with Laurel Ridge Community College, completed the program 24 years ago and returned for a modern refresher. A Student With a Head Start Zachary Nicholson, the youngest participant, joined simply to learn about his community—earning praise from Janet for choosing curiosity over obligation. Together, their voices paint a picture of a community eager to learn, participate, and contribute. Evolution in a Growing Region As Janet and Niki reflect on the program's history, they acknowledge how dramatically the county has changed since its inception. Businesses have expanded, new neighborhoods have emerged, and local government has evolved. That's why Niki loves when alumni return; the learning is never truly finished. Importantly, Niki notes that town staff have participated every single year—a powerful endorsement of the program's relevance. Valley Health, too, is a consistent supporter, sending team members annually to strengthen cross-sector understanding. Connecting the Dots Across Sectors Because participants represent nearly every corner of the community—government, healthcare, education, nonprofits, small business—the program becomes a living network. "We all touch different people," Niki explains. The more accurate information leaders share, the stronger the community becomes. From tours of major institutions to hands-on sessions during government and education months, the program forces participants to move beyond assumptions and see the systems they inhabit. Holiday Hustle: The Chamber's Busiest Season In the second half of the episode, the conversation shifts from leadership development to full-blown holiday logistics. And for Niki, December is no small undertaking. The Christmas Parade & Merry Market The Front Royal Christmas Parade, one of the largest annual events downtown, draws more than 7,000 attendees—making it the third-largest community gathering. Interest is so strong that parade applications were requested as early as February. Beyond the parade, Niki outlines a full day of activities: Holiday performances at the gazebo The Merry Market featuring small businesses and seasonal vendors Children's activities Pancake breakfasts, open houses, concerts, and more As Janet jokes, it's the kind of day that makes Front Royal feel like a Hallmark movie—though Niki insists it feels more like the small-town charm of Gilmore Girls. Business After Hours & Community Giving Even with the holiday chaos, the chamber continues its regular programming. December includes: Coffee & Conversation, held the first Friday of every month Business After Hours at Royal Cinemas on December 9, raising funds for Warren County foster care A free screening of Elf afterward Cocoa & Cookies at the Chamber on December 19—open to everyone, not just members Looking Ahead: Education and Local Government As the leadership class finishes its introductions, Nikki previews their upcoming sessions: December: Education — tours, presentations, and immersive learning in local schools January: Local Government — meetings with officials, facility tours, and firsthand exploration of how decisions are made Janet can't resist teasing them about Public Safety Day, warning that Warren County Fire & Rescue legend Gerry Maiatico never misses an audience. A Class Just Getting Started As the conversation wraps, the participants settle into their first day as a cohort—curious, energized, and ready for the nine-month journey ahead. Janet promises to return in June to ask them what surprised them most, what they loved, and how the experience changed their understanding of Front Royal and Warren County. One thing is certain: this group is diverse, engaged, and poised to make a meaningful impact.

Welcome to the Thousand Stories podcast, the Renaissance Series. Hosted by Justin Brown, former Secretary of Human Services in the state of Oklahoma, and Luke Williams, this series marks a true rebirth for Health and Human Services. While the original podcast shared incredible untold stories happening in Health and Human Services beyond the negative headlines, the Renaissance Series is now stepping into a new era of innovation and transformation. We are moving toward a more connected, human-centered, and innovative future by exploring how leaders, researchers, and practitioners are building systems that truly serve people.In this specific episode, the hosts are joined by Mike Leech (former State Director for the South Carolina Department of Social Services) and Samantha Galloway (former Interim Director at the Department of Human Services in Oklahoma) to discuss the impact and influence of class action lawsuits in the Health and Human Services segment.Class action lawsuits are increasing rapidly against state systems, particularly in child welfare. Too often, these cases become lengthy and adversarial, and resulting settlement agreements can be complex and challenging to operationalize, contributing to extended oversight and uneven progress.This conversation explores a more collaborative and sustainable path. The guests and hosts examine methods for bringing plaintiffs' counsel and state leaders into informed, good-faith dialogue earlier, including pre-litigation conversations and mediation. The aim is to build shared facts and shape durable commitments that agencies can deliver, ensuring improvements are meaningful and long-lasting.Discover why culture is key to sustaining reform, and the importance of building a system with trust and transparency—both with external monitors and internally with staff. The discussion emphasizes moving past being "paralyzed in the fear" of litigation to drive change today, accelerating improvement, and building a self-correcting system that utilizes technology to move beyond outdated processes. Ultimately, this episode explores how aligning on a shared vision can reduce conflict and move more resources toward serving children and families

Camese Bedford v. MO Dept of Social Services, Family Support Div.

Planned Parenthood Great Rivers v. MO Dept. of Social Services

3pm - Ursula Joins the Show for a Discussion on Social Services and John “Endorsing” Katie Wilson // THIS DAY IN HISTORY: 1940 - The infamous “Coventry Blitz” // The power of diacope

6pm - Ursula Joins the Show for a Discussion on Social Services and John “Endorsing” Katie Wilson // THIS DAY IN HISTORY: 1940 - The infamous “Coventry Blitz” // The power of diacope

We celebrate and thank the veterans that have served our country today with an overview of some of the supportive social services available to serve them. While there are a number of services and benefits available to everyone who has served in the armed forces, some of these services and Read More Shared by United Resource Connection November 11, 2025

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In this episode, we sit down with Marjorie Woo, an inspiring leader whose career journey spans psychology, social services, corporate leadership, and executive coaching. From her early days growing up and studying in the United States to founding her own business in Asia-Pacific, Marjorie shares the pivotal moments, mindset shifts, and lessons that shaped her path. 0:20 Learnings from Felicity 1:40 Who is Marjorie Woo 5:20 Growing up as a child 7:55 Moving to States  10:00 What motivated her to do Social Services and Psychology 13:50 Adapting to her new life in the States 21:45 Having a business was not a 'proper' job  23:00 Her journey with Xerox 28:40 Applying what she has learnt from Psychology 31:30 Moving back to APAC and upskilling in MBA 36:15 How did she stand out in the midst of competition and unconventional norms 40:05 Most important career decision 46:00 Beginning her coaching career 47:35 What's next for Marjorie  49:50 Best career advice

Hometown Radio 11/05/25 3p: County Social Services stages Operation Santa

In this Flash X Space from 30 October 2025, philosopher Stefan Molyneux recounts his challenging childhood marked by neglect and systemic failures in welfare systems. He highlights the lack of support from social services and educators, arguing these institutions often exacerbate dependency. Engaging with callers, Molyneux calls for societal reflection on indifference and urges listeners to advocate for meaningful change to combat cycles of neglect.SUBSCRIBE TO ME ON X! https://x.com/StefanMolyneuxFollow me on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/@freedomain1GET MY NEW BOOK 'PEACEFUL PARENTING', THE INTERACTIVE PEACEFUL PARENTING AI, AND THE FULL AUDIOBOOK!https://peacefulparenting.com/Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Subscribers get 12 HOURS on the "Truth About the French Revolution," multiple interactive multi-lingual philosophy AIs trained on thousands of hours of my material - as well as AIs for Real-Time Relationships, Bitcoin, Peaceful Parenting, and Call-In Shows!You also receive private livestreams, HUNDREDS of exclusive premium shows, early release podcasts, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series and much more!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2025

A new report highlighted the sever understaffing situation at the Department of Social Services and the impact on wait times at its call center. We spoke with Sheldon Toubman, a litigation attorney with Disability Rights Connecticut, about the problem with attracting and retaining staff at DSS and the call to action for lawmakers.  Image Credit: Getty Images

Commissioner of Social Services in Niagara County, Meghan Lutz on the delay of HEAP applications for residents due to the ongoing federal government shutdown full 100 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000 tOXG5XtxqQEnnezs3kPmI6vqkdpeL20W news,wben,niagara county,heap WBEN Extras news,wben,niagara county,heap Commissioner of Social Services in Niagara County, Meghan Lutz on the delay of HEAP applications for residents due to the ongoing federal government shutdown Archive of various reports and news events 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. News

Due to the federal government shut down, November CalFresh benefits will be impacted for millions of Californians. Rachel Peña, Director of Social Services for Nevada County, says close to 12,000 Nevada County residents will lose their CalFresh benefits in November, which amounts to a $2.3 million monthly impact to the local economy. 

United Against Hate Week is a statewide initiative with a clear message: hate has no place in our communities. KVMR News talks with Heidi Hall, Nevada County District 1 Supervisor and Current Chair of the Board, Rachel Pena, Director of Social Services for Nevada County, and Margaret Gilmore, Branch Manager at the Madelyn Helling Library to hear about the Nevada County Equity Inclusion Leadership Alliance's participation in the initiative. Friday October 24th through Sunday October 26th, Nevada County expects rain, mountain snow, moderate winds. The county is offering free sand at four locations; residents must bring their own shovel and sandbags. 

In this episode, Emma Case, Planning and Advocacy Manager at the Senior Alliance, talks to Amne Darwish Talab, Director of Social Services at ACCESS - the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services. They talk about the programs ACCESS offers for senior care in the Metro Detroit area Arab American Community, including EXHALE - Caregiver Support Program. ACCESS offers many services for seniors and caregivers of seniors in the Arab American Community, and Amne does a great job of explaining what they are and how seniors and caregivers can get those services. Take a listen! www.thesenioralliance.org. Produced by The Senior Alliance and Blazing Kiss Media. The post Inside The Senior Alliance – EXHALE: Caregiver Support Program (Ep 60) appeared first on The Senior Alliance.

Ken Landau talks with Attorney Rudy Carmenaty, the Deputy Commissioner for the Nassau County Department of Social Services and frequent lecturer on important legal and political figures, who discusses the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. He also reviews his short presidency and legal issues created by his assassination.

Andrea Barton Reeves is a former ad litem lawyer, CEO of Harc. Inc - a nonprofit organization supporting people with intellectual disabilities and their families, and the founding CEO of the Connecticut Paid Leave Program - the state’s first new agency in 12 years thanks to which over 200,000 individuals and families have received paid family leave benefits. With over twenty years of experience in advocacy, Barton Reeves has dedicated her career to ensuring accessibility to services and support for thousands of residents throughout the state of Connecticut. Barton Reeves is the current Commissioner for the Department of Social Services in Connecticut, leading an 1,800-person agency which serves 1.2 million residents. Critical services include Medicaid, SNAP, Home and Community-Based Services, supports for elders and health care delivered through Federal Qualified Health Centers. In light of the current threats to public healthcare and social services, Barton Reeves remains grounded in her values of transparency, integrity and service to othersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands of California families rely on in-home daycares for their kids. But after the housing market collapse in 2008, the state lost 30% of these types of child care settings, leading to a crisis. As part of its effort to rebuild, California passed a law in 2019 forbidding landlords and homeowners' associations from refusing to rent to in-home child care providers. But that hasn't stopped the practice. Reporter: Daisy Nguyen, KQED is joining 13 others to create an alliance aimed at coordinating public health policy-- a direct rebuke of the Trump Administration Reporter: Marisa Lagos, KQED 5.5 million Californians could soon lose their food assistance benefits, if Congress doesn't end the shutdown and approve a budget agreement. That's according to The California Department of Social Services, who oversees the program, CalFresh. Reporter: Nick Gerda, LAist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Podcast Friday!After some time away, the Wausau PD Podcast is back! In this episode, Chief Barnes is joined by the Marathon County Department of Social Services director, Christa Jensen, to talk about the Family Keys program. Take a listen to find out how Family Keys is working to keep families together while preparing them for long-lasting success.The Wausau PD Podcast is also available on Facebook, YouTube, and other major platforms

What really happens as dementia and Alzheimer's disease progresses? In this Living to 100 Club episode, Dr. Joe sits down with Lisa Skinner, a nationally recognized and published expert on Alzheimer's disease and dementia. We shed light on the misunderstood realities of cognitive decline. Drawing from her acclaimed book, Lisa shares profound insights into how Alzheimer's alters not just memory – but identity, behavior, and the fabric of family relationships. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for a person-centered approach to understanding dementia and dementia care. Why does traditional reality orientation often fail? And what does it really means to support a loved one through confusion, fear, and loss of self. The conversation also explores promising ways to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease - and how to live meaningfully even after a diagnosis. Understanding Dementia: Caregiver Tips and Strategies For ready-to-use activities and lesson plans, explore BLH Module 8: Understanding Depression, Dementia & Delirium. Learn more in Dr. Joe's Blog: Clearing the Fog: Understanding the 3 D's of Aging If you'd like to dive deeper into this topic, take a look at my blog, Clearing the Fog: Understanding the 3 D's of Aging. Here, I explain how dementia, depression, and delirium overlap yet differ and why recognizing each is critical for caregivers and senior-living professionals. For a ready-to-use resource, explore BLH Module 8: Understanding Depression, Dementia & Delirium. This module includes 60 cards of lesson plans, activities, discussion prompts, and inspirational stories. It is designed to educate staff and support families.

402-521-3080In this conversation, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders engage with Kim Kelley, a survivor of child trafficking, who now advocates for effective solutions to combat human trafficking and child exploitation. They discuss the complexities of trafficking, the need for trauma-informed care, and the importance of community involvement and law enforcement training. Kim emphasizes the misconceptions surrounding 'rescuing' children and the necessity for transparency in NGOs and social services. The conversation highlights the critical role of survivor involvement in shaping effective programs and the need for collaborative approaches to protect children.ranchtx.orgDigital Defenders United - digitaldefendersunited.org TakeawaysKim Kelly is a survivor of child trafficking and now advocates for effective solutions.Understanding the complexities of human trafficking is crucial for effective intervention.Law enforcement often lacks the necessary training to identify and assist trafficking victims.Community involvement is essential in preventing child exploitation.The misconception of 'rescuing' children can lead to further trauma.Effective solutions require collaboration between various sectors, including law enforcement and NGOs.Survivor involvement is critical in shaping effective programs and solutions.Transparency in funding and organizational effectiveness is necessary for real impact.Trauma-informed care is essential in supporting survivors of trafficking.Education and awareness are key components in combating trafficking.Sound bites"Awareness is powerful, but we need to take action.""Not all abuse is trafficking.""If we don't understand the problem, we can't solve it."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Relationships02:29 Understanding Child Trafficking and Exploitation06:42 The Role of Law Enforcement in Child Protection12:52 Defining Human Trafficking and Its Impact18:36 The Complexity of Rescuing Children25:31 Challenges in Social Services and Law Enforcement Training29:54 Understanding Trauma-Informed Approaches36:12 The Role of Law Enforcement in Aftercare37:32 Vetting Organizations for Effectiveness40:19 The Importance of Tailored Healing Modalities48:45 Funding and Transparency in Nonprofits56:47 Connecting with Experts and ResourcesSupport the showEveryone has resilience, but what does that mean, and how do we use it in life and leadership? Join Stephanie Olson, an expert in resiliency and trauma, every week as she talks to other experts living lives of resilience. Stephanie also shares her own stories of addictions, disordered eating, domestic and sexual violence, abandonment, and trauma, and shares the everyday struggles and joys of everyday life. As a wife, mom, and CEO she gives commentaries and, sometimes, a few rants to shed light on what makes a person resilient. So, if you have experienced adversity in life in any way and want to learn how to better lead your family, your workplace, and, well, your life, this podcast is for you!https://setmefreeproject.net https://www.stephanieolson.com/

Join the conversation with C4 & Bryan Nehman.  John Dedie sat in for Bryan this morning.  An audit shows that social services possibly placed kids in homes of sex offenders.  An update on the York County PA shooting.  Continuing fallout from the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel over comments he made about Charlie Kirks murder.   Geoff Arnold joined the show to talk about the final homestand of the season & more.  Listen to C4 & Bryan Nehman live weekdays from 5:30 to 10am on WBAL News Radio 1090, FM 101.5 & the WBAL Radio App!

     Slam The Gavel welcomes Wes Acton to the podcast. He is a 42 year old father of four amazing children. However, on December 19th, 2016, he had to turn his then wife in for physical child abuse, but he thought he was seeking help. What came next was the police arriving and CPS. Wes has no criminal record, not even a parking ticket. CPS removed the children from their home and placed them with the paternal grandparents. His wife served one year in prison.     After 10 months, Wes FINALLY got the children back. With false accusations, his church turned on him without any evidence and even took time out to drive 40 minutes to go to court to lie about Wes. Nine members of his church and half of his family turned on him, disowned him because he SUDDENLY became an inconvenience and an embarrassment.To reach Wes Acton: Wes Acton on TikTok and on FB: Randolph ActonSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook:  https://www.youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcasthostmar5536Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcasthostmar5536  Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com   https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/about*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Not financial, medical nor legal advice as the content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user's should consult with the relevant professionals. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. Podcast is protected by owner. The content creator maintains the exclusive right and any unauthorized copyright infringement is subject to legal prosecution.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Courtney Williams engage with Ryan O'Donnell, a tech entrepreneur and former foster parent, who discusses his journey from organizing a record-breaking food drive to creating a technology platform aimed at improving communication and collaboration within the foster care system.Ryan shares his personal experiences as a foster parent, the challenges he faced, and how these experiences inspired him to develop 'Your Case Plan', an app designed to streamline communication among all parties involved in a child's welfare. The conversation also touches on the importance of legal representation for families, the need for affordable housing solutions for foster youth, and the broader implications of technology in enhancing the foster care system.TakeawaysRyan O'Donnell is a tech entrepreneur and former foster parent.He organized a record-breaking food drive during high school.His experiences as a foster parent highlighted communication issues in the system.'Your Case Plan' was developed to improve collaboration in foster care.The app is free for families and aims to streamline communication.Ryan emphasizes the importance of legal representation for families in the system.Affordable housing solutions are crucial for youth aging out of foster care.The foster care system often lacks transparency, leading to poor outcomes.Ryan's work aims to break the cycle of families entering the system.The conversation highlights the need for multifaceted solutions in foster care. Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.Meet kids awaiting adoption. Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.

Tax the fucking rich. End corporate bailouts. Divest from war machine. Divest from the surveillance + data collection machine.Divest from the “Great American Ponzi scheme”. Free, Universal Healthcare. Provide Access to Social Services before Policing.Decriminalize homelessness + mental illness. End Gerrymandering. Expand Voting Rights + Accessibility.Campaign Finance Reform + End Lobbying. End Corporate Donors + Political Interference.Reduce Political Polarization + End Purity Politics + Culture WarsRestore hard earned protections for marginalized communities. Expand Democratic Elections + Disband 2 Party SystemRestore the Fairness Doctrine Mandate Civics Classes Restore Public Trust + Promote ParticipationRank Choice Voting Support Independent JournalismAddress Systemic Inequality + Racism through policy changes. Support workers + workers unionsSupport People with disabilities + Veterans, Invest in local social safety nets + community care. Resources for Resisting a Coup: https://makeyourdamnbed.medium.com/practical-guides-to-resisting-a-coup-b44571b9ad66SUPPORT Julie (and the show!): https://supporter.acast.com/make-your-damn-bedDONATE to the Palestinian Children's Relief Fund: www.pcrf.netGET AN OCCASIONAL PERSONAL EMAIL FROM ME: www.makeyourdamnbedpodcast.comTUNE IN ON INSTAGRAM FOR COOL CONTENT: www.instagram.com/mydbpodcastOR BE A REAL GEM + TUNE IN ON PATREON: www.patreon.com/MYDBpodcastOR WATCH ON YOUTUBE: www.youtube.com/juliemerica The opinions expressed by Julie Merica and Make Your Damn Bed Podcast are intended for entertainment purposes only. Make Your Damn Bed podcast is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/make-your-damn-bed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mercedez Jackson, Fulton County Schools, LIVE from the 2025 GNFCC BOLD Women's Leadership Summit (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 892) Mercedez Jackson from the Fulton County Schools Social Services Department joined host John Ray live from the 2025 GNFCC BOLD Women's Leadership Summit to share her insights from her keynote address at the event on building […] The post Mercedez Jackson, Fulton County Schools, on Resilience appeared first on Business RadioX ®.

Housing social workers and advocates are facing the fallout of the cancellation of the Department of Human Service's housing stabilization program due to alleged fraud. DHS found 77 providers with credible allegations of wrongdoing and terminated the program.But there are hundreds of other organizations that were using the program in earnest to help Minnesotans find housing. Local organization Avivo helps thousands of Minnesotans find stable housing. John Tribbett is a service area director in Avivo's Ending Homelessness division. MPR News guest host Chris Farrell talked to Tribbett about his reaction when he heard the state was shutting down the program.