SSI 2023 Photos and Innovation Awards
PURPOSE OF AWARDS: The NCACDSS County Innovation Awards provide an opportunity to recognize innovative, successful, and unique programs within county Social Services offices and share these innovations with other counties and the public.
Nominations are divided into three groups based on county size – small, medium, and large.
TWO AWARD CATEGORIES: This year’s awards are to recognize counties in two achievement areas. Each county was allowed to submit only ONE nomination per category. The categories were:
Category #1 -Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: At the heart of all social services programming, we work to enhance well-being and help meet the basic needs of adults, families, and children — especially those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. We can only accomplish this with a competent, committed workforce.
Category #2 – Community Engagement: We do not work in isolation. We work collaboratively within our counties to through groups of people affiliated by geographic proximity, special interest, or similar situations to address issues affecting the well-being of those we serve. The issues are vast and complex. Examples include expanding Medicaid, Unwinding of PHE, increased families facing food insecurity, and homelessness, children experiencing foster care without placement, and adults with disabilities needing increased community support to remain living independently just to name a few.
Chatham County DSS: DSS Equity Committee
Gaston: The SEALS – Work First Family Assistance Employment and Training Program
Scotland: Values for All!
Brunswick: Creating Partnerships: Local Preference for Child Welfare Families
Buncombe County HHS: The Growing Relationships and Cultivating Engagement (GRACE) Center
Gates: 1st Annual Community Baby Shower