July 21, 2009
Counties See Increased Need for Second Ohio Summit on Children
The recently adopted two-year state budget underscores the need for more collaboration than ever among county agencies that work with children. That’s the message the Supreme Court of Ohio is hearing while planning continues for the second Ohio Summit on Children in November.
As a follow-up to the first summit in May 2008, this fall’s summit will chart the progress of Ohio’s 88 counties on their efforts to enhance the safety, well-being and permanent home environments of Ohio children.
Steve Hanson, manager of the Children, Families and the Courts Programs for the Supreme Court, said county personnel are expressing frustration at funding levels, but they recognize that work on behalf of Ohio’s children is still needed even in the face of tough economic times.
“The message they are sending is clear: collaboration and having a shared vision is even more important in today’s economic climate,” he said. “Given the souring of the economy since the last summit, discussions on how to meet the needs of vulnerable children must occur now more than ever. These economic times require us to think differently about how state and local systems are organized to deliver services. The summit will allow counties an opportunity to discuss and share creative approaches to meeting local challenges.”
Examples of planned summit roundtable discussions include: leveraging local funds; maintaining a continuum of care in the current climate; and access to timely services. Counties continue to submit plans on their successes and challenges and the steps the state can take to support local efforts through policy decisions and potential new programs.
For more information on the 2009 Ohio Summit on Children, visit the Summit Web site.
Contact: Chris Davey or Bret Crow, 614.387.9250.