Developing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is a top priority for Summit County Children Services (SCCS).  To help formulate a long-term strategy of creating racial equity in our workforce and the services we provide to children and families, an internal DEI Steering Committee was created.  Two sub-committees have been formed each taking a closer look at the processes in each identified area through the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion.

DEI Steering Committee
Members: Sam Dunn, Social Service Programs; Chelsay Finney, Legal Services; Taranna Francisco, Protective Services; Lawanna Holt, Protective Services; Beth Kinney, Placement Services; Kristin Lopez, Intake Screenings & Support; Regan McKinney-Baity, Social Service Programs; Hannah Pittman, Intake Services; and Deanna Shriver, Fiscal Services.

Training Sub-Committee.  This sub-committee focuses on a thorough evaluation of our Summit training processes including how training is identified and how trainings and curriculum are selected.

Human Resources Sub-Committee. This sub-committee focuses on the full spectrum of the hiring and on-boarding process of new staff including recruitment strategies, review of our application, the screening and interview process and new hire paperwork process.

The DEI Steering Committee has developed a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Action Plan. The plan outlines five Key Initiatives that will help to ensure that SCCS becomes a more inclusive workplace for our employees and the children and families we serve.  These Key Initiatives include:  Organizational Commitment, Work Climate & Culture, Learning & Development, Recruitment, and Retention.