A Message from Commissioner Dorantes
Social Worker Appreciation Month and Women's History Month
March is designated annually as Social Work month. There are various disciplines complimenting social work within DCF's ranks… Child Welfare is often synonymous with the field of Social Work.
Therefore, we take this time to express our sincere appreciation for DCF's Social Workers and all who support the outcomes we produce.
This year's NASW theme is, "The Time is Right for Social Work." Pandemic recovery needs to reflect the urgency of child-time. Children have lost so much… Social Work standards and values were made for such a time as THIS.
In March, we also celebrate Women's History Month. It was year ago that I was honored to speak with Vice President Kamala Harris during her visit to Connecticut. We talked about how our "ceiling is the next generation's floor."
This past year, we have continued to raise awareness and advocacy for equality in pay, promotions and inclusion of women across systems. We must continue our efforts. Take a look at the work of the Governor's Council on Women and Girls which I Co-Chair.
THIS month was fantastic!
After 30+ years we exited the Juan F. Consent Decree! This month's "Spotlight on What's Right" newsletter highlights the agency and systems transformations that have led to this historic moment!
Connecticut's Family First Plan was also approved by the U.S. Children's Bureau earlier in the month! See how the major shifts in Federal legislation will benefit Connecticut's children and families - leading to more children residing safely at home and diverting other families from even coming to the attention of the Child Welfare Agency. We are part of a larger child-wellbeing system.
It has been a while since we provided a video. Please see the Commissioner's video for important updates on Department operations.
Thank you all for showing up for CT's children and families…time and time again!