Ohio Department of Children and Youth

Director Kara Wente, Chief of Staff Jeff Van Deusen, and Deputy Director Katina Bays made several stops in Cleveland recently. The Mental Health & Addiction Advocacy Coalition invited the Director to meet with members to discuss workforce challenges in the human services fields. Next, they visited First Year Cleveland to learn about their efforts to address infant vitality in Cuyahoga County. Finally, they met with leadership from Cuyahoga County to learn about their creative solutions for addressing the children services placement crisis. During these visits, they engaged in meaningful dialogues, sharing insights and strategies to tackle these pressing issues. The Department of Children and Youth’s commitment to understanding and supporting local initiatives focused on children underscores our dedication to improving the lives of Ohio's youngest residents. Each meeting provided valuable perspectives, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving positive change for children across the state. These efforts aim to ensure that every child in Ohio has access to the care, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Happy 1st Birthday, DCY! 🎉 What a monumental year it has been! Please take a moment to listen to Director Kara Wente's overview of our first year as Ohio's newest state agency. We are proud to wake up every day to DO WHAT'S RIGHT FOR KIDS!

DCY Director Kara Wente, Chief of Staff Jeff Van Deusen, and Assistant Deputy Director of Communications Kari Akins attended the 2024 Leadership and Life Skills Summit on June 11 in Columbus, Ohio. The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Ohio Youth Advisory Board, ACTION Ohio, the Ohio Children's Alliance, and the Ohio Department of Children and Youth. The summit focused on informing and empowering current and former teens and young adults engaged in foster care. It featured numerous workshops, breakout sessions, and resource tables, enabling attendees to gain valuable insights and skills that will empower them in their personal and professional journeys. In addition to the workshops, representatives from DCY supported the Suits for Success program, through which individuals were able to receive professional clothing gathered and organized for job interviews and other important events. Director Wente spoke at the event, congratulating the 493 youth and young adults who earned their high school diploma or equivalent this year and awarding each of them $250 for their incredible accomplishment. She concluded her speech by acknowledging the bright, determined individuals who are ready to take the next steps in their lives. Director Wente emphasized how their experiences guide the work at DCY and how their voices are leading the way to a better tomorrow.

Ohio Reach: Empowering former foster youth on their higher education path! A statewide network of professionals, advocates, and students dedicated to supporting these remarkable individuals. From resources for institutions to support for alumni, Ohio Reach is here to ensure every journey leads to success. https://ohioreach.org/ #OhioReach

"Oh come, let's sing Ohio's praise...." Congratulations! DCY Director Kara Wente is the 2024 recipient of the 'How Firm Thy Friendship' Award. The Ohio State University President Walter E. Carter, Jr., and Molly Ranz Calhoun, President and CEO of the The Ohio State University Alumni Association presented the award that recognizes dedication to and advocacy for The Ohio State University in the public sector. Thank you, Director Wente, for your unwavering commitment to Do What's Right For Kids!

Director Kara Wente attended the 2024 Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities' Mental Health & Addiction Conference on Monday, along with other state agency directors to discuss innovative support for behavioral health programs. During her panel, she highlighted Ohio START (Ohio Sobriety, Treatment, and Reducing Trauma) and Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC).   Ohio START is a children services evidence based program that improves outcomes for both parents and children affected by child maltreatment and parental substance use disorders. Ohio START operates in 56 counties and has served over 4,000 individuals since 2017. It is recognized as a prevention service helping to keep children safely at home.   IECMHC is a prevention-based approach that pairs a qualified mental health specialist with infants, toddlers, and preschool aged children in the various settings where they learn and grow. IECMH consultants are available statewide through the Ohio Preschool Expulsion Prevention Partnership (OPEPP) to help children remain in early care programs and avoid suspension or expulsion.