“State of Human Services” Virtual Hearings In April 2023, hundreds of non-profit leaders and engaged Allegheny County residents participated in “The State of Human Services” virtual hearings to learn about upcoming regional priorities, ask pointed questions, and provide feedback. DHS is responsible for providing and administering publicly funded human services to county residents, including 200,000 of the most vulnerable individuals, through a network of more than 400 community non-profits. The DHS director hosted two virtual hearings, spaced a week apart, to maximize live participation. The sessions featured an overview from the DHS director, focusing on four distinct priorities, followed by a live, on-camera, Q&A hosted by a local non-profit leader. Those questions that could not be addressed within the allotted timeframe were responded to with written follow-ups. DHS shared a recording of the hearing with all attendees and posted it on DHS’ community engagement website to spark continued conversation. To view a recording of Allegheny County’s State of Human Services, visit (vimeo. com/821010650?share=copy) Virtual hearings have proven to be an effective, two-way communication tool for Allegheny County DHS. Community non-profits gain insights into and share in DHS priorities, while DHS benefits from feedback from group leaders engaged daily with clients and help carry out the DHS mission. Recovery Month Luncheon – OBH-D&A The Office of Behavioral Health, Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Services held an inaugural Recovery Month Luncheon in September 2023, providing an opportunity for community members, providers, including Co-Forge, and
DHS leadership and staff to form connections. The event provided a platform for community members to share inspiring stories of their substance use journeys and resilience in recovery. It also allowed providers and staff to gain insights from community members experiences working with various recovery-oriented supports in the county and beyond. Pennsylvania Master Plan on Aging Regional Town Hall DHS’ Area Agency on Aging, along with representatives from Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh and the Pennsylvania Council on Aging, participated in an input session for the governor and his administration for the first- ever Pennsylvania 10-Year Master Plan for Older Adults. The multi-sector plan aims to transform infrastructure and coordination of services for older Pennsylvanians through state leadership and stakeholder collaboration. The local leaders shared their successes in engaging the older adult population, including through COVID-19 vaccination clinics, and acknowledged some of the greatest challenges impacting the aging population, especially safe, affordable and accessible housing. Attendees were invited to share solutions for creating inclusive and viable communities and systems for people of all ages and abilities. The event represented the collective
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