West NY News

Chautauqua County is reaching out to local parents and caregivers, inviting them to join the OCFS Parent Advisory Board. This initiative aims to shape New York's child welfare policies through direct input from those with firsthand experience in the system.

The Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services encourages applications for membership on the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) Parent Advisory Board (PAB). The board seeks to empower participants by providing a platform for sharing insights and making recommendations. Applications are open until November 15, 2024.

Eligible candidates include parents, kinship caregivers, foster parents, and adoptive parents with experience in New York's child welfare system. Members will serve a three-year term, collaborating with OCFS to enhance safety, permanency, and well-being for families and children across the state. The board values diverse perspectives to represent families from all regions of New York.

“This Parent Advisory Board is a unique opportunity for parents and caregivers to directly influence improvements in our child welfare system,” said Carmelo Hernandez, Director of Mental Hygiene and Social Services for Chautauqua County. “We strongly encourage those with personal experience to apply. Their insights are essential for shaping policies that prioritize family and child well-being across New York.”

The board comprises up to 16 members who will provide feedback on OCFS policies, practices, and initiatives. Applicants must have current or prior involvement in the child welfare system, complete an application process including background checks, communicate via email, participate in meetings both in-person and virtually, and commit to advocating for parent voices within their communities.

Interested individuals can apply through the official application form at forms.office.com/g/99zgMpH5vU. For more information, contact Tenisha Hope at (518) 473-1766 or Tenisha.Hope@ocfs.ny.gov.

Local organizations, community groups, and individuals are urged by the Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services to share this opportunity widely so that eligible parents and caregivers can be informed about this platform for systemic change.

Applications close on November 15, 2024.