Connect across Team FCCS by Joining Committees

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At FCCS, employee committees support staff morale, drive continuous improvement, and prioritize cultural competency. They’re also a good way to communicate and connect with colleagues across the agency.

And right now, several committees are looking for new members who want to get involved. 

One of those committees - the Supportive Work Environment Committee (SWE) - is responsible for bringing a little fun and a sense of community to Team FCCS. Brand new co-chairs Kara Green and Cassandra Davala are working with site sub-committees to create a schedule of fun and informative events throughout the year. 

Proposed events range from tailgate parties to chili cook-offs, walking clubs and meditation times, and cooking demonstrations, with support from ThriveOn. The highlight of the year is Health and Wellness Day at each building, when staff enjoy healthy food, exercise classes, wellness seminars, and more.  

“Working in child welfare can be challenging,” said SWE co-chair Ms. Green, “and I think building comradery among everyone can help make our work less stressful.” 

Echoed by her committee co-chair, Ms. Davala wants to recruit more people in the planning of events. 

If you’re interested in joining your site’s SWE Committee, contact the following: 

  • West Region SWE Committee: Kaitlin Messenger and Barb Otto
  • Intake SWE Committee: Chelsea Honigford, Michaele Reynolds, Robin Roams, Dumitru Sabaiduc 
  • East Region SWE Committee: Charlotte McDougal and Kara Green
  • 855 SWE Committee: Marion Thompson and Jamie Chambers

Another committee, the Peer Support Team, offers unique support for staff who might be experiencing the stress of working with youth and families in trauma. 

Members of the Peer Support Team are available to listen, compare notes, and offer encouragement when staff are struggling. 

“We’re looking for anyone who wants to be a support person for their peers to join our team,” said co-chair Jenna Moore. 

Contact Ms. Moore or her co-chair Diona Clark if you are interested in joining the team. 

The FCCS Safety Committee is responsible for identifying concerns and sharing information to help keep staff safer. The committee reviews employee incident reports and discusses safety training. 

FCCS Safety & Security Director and committee co-chair Robert Collins recognizes the importance of creating and maintaining safe workspaces: “Our staff is the agency' most important and valuable resource to fulfill its mission. Working together so that staff feel safe both in the office and in the field is essential to our success."

New members are welcome to join the Safety Subcommittee at each FCCS building. There’s a specific need for participants at 4071 who work all shifts. Contact Mr. Collins, his co-chair Joseph Blackburn, or the following subcommittee co-chairs if you have any questions: 

  • 855 Safety Subcommittee: Joseph Blackburn and Jhonte Watson
  • 4071 Safety Subcommittee: Lichelle Tinker and LaShawna Willis
  • 1919 Safety Subcommittee: Paul Lockman and Cynthia Turner

The Multicultural Development Team Committee (MDT) offers staff opportunities to learn about the cultures represented in our community. 

MDT is also responsible for making recommendations to Executive Council concerning improving cultural competency. Led by co-chairs Tonia Still and Vincent Owens, the committee schedules regular events including an annual offsite cultural training session. 

“Being part of MDT allows me to learn about other cultures,” committee member Malik Moore said. “It helps me to build relationships and get to know people beyond those in my existing circle.” 

Click here to learn more about FCCS Employee Committees.


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