DCF on the Air

In this episode we are taking it full circle at the end of Murphy's administration with Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer to highlight the work that has been done in the last 8 years to keep families safe, healthy, and connected. We will talk to the Commissioner about what may be next for herself and DCF, and her reflections on how it was to serve as the Commissioner for the Department.

In this bonus episode DCF on the Air talks with casework employees at various levels of their career about how they support their sense of safety and wellbeing in the workplace. This episode is produced in collaboration with the Rise Up fellows through CWEL (Child Welfare Education Leaders).

This conversation explores the various aspects of kinship care within child welfare, focusing on the definitions, programs, and benefits associated with kinship relationships. Jason Butkowski interviewed Takysha Livingston with the Kinship Navigator Program, Kimyatta Larmore with Kinship Resource Families, and Felice Elam with the Kinship Legal Guardianship program. These experts discuss their roles, the importance of maintaining family connections, and the positive outcomes for children placed in kinship care. The dialogue emphasizes the collaborative efforts among programs to support families and improve the overall welfare of children in the system within the Kinship Care continuum.

Men of Courage is a beautiful expression and counter to the prevailing “man-o-sphere” concept of masculinity. The short film takes audiences on a journey inside the Garden State for a fly-on-the-wall experience as five Black and Latino men share their personal experiences witnessing domestic abuseinside their homes. Led by Wil DuBose of the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJEDV), these men use their influence as community leaders to engage boys and men in compelling conversations about the roles they play in ending men's violence against women.

This conversation focuses on the various initiatives and programs aimed at ensuring child safety in New Jersey. The discussion highlights the roles of the Department of Children and Families, particularly the Safety Subcommittee and the Institutional Abuse Investigations Unit (IAIU). It addresses the increase in referrals for institutional abuse, legislative efforts to improve child safety, and the importance of training and education for both educators and students. Additionally, the conversation explores the issue of problematic sexual behavior in children and the development of support structures to address these concerns.

What is reunification? What steps are taken to prioritize reunification with a family? In this episode, we are talking with our staff at CP&P and a resource family to talk about the importance of reunification and what supports are available.

This conversation explores the transformation of NewJersey's child welfare system through a data-driven approach. The discussion highlights the historical context of data utilization, the importance of evidence-based practices, and the state's leadership in national child welfare data initiatives. Key case studies, such as kinship placement and the NJ4S program, illustrate the practical application of data in improving outcomes for families. The conversation also addresses innovative strategies for disseminating data and the implications of the Family First Prevention ServicesAct.

In this episode, we sit with the New Jersey Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect to discuss the importance of creating a statewide system to address child maltreatment and its decades of continuing progress in helping children across New Jersey.More Information on NJTFCAN -https://www.nj.gov/dcf/providers/boards/njtfcan/

In this episode we are discussing the collaborative efforts of DCF (I/DD) & DHS (DDD) around how to support youth with developmental disabilities to transition into the adult care system. We talk about what supports are available and what resources families can utilize to help with this transition. Need to learn more about the I/DD Transition?CSOC.Director@dcf.nj.gov – answers general questions about CSOC.DCF-CSOC.Guardianship@dcf.nj.gov –for questions aboutguardianship of youth 18-21 with  I/DD. DD.Transition@dcf.nj.gov – for questions about the transition process to the adult developmental disability system.General CSOC Helpline🔗 https://www.PerformcareNJ.org/📲 1-877-652-7624 24/7/365 days a year🔗 Find more about other services at the NJDisability Information Hub: www.NJ.gov/Disabilities

In this month's edition of On the Air, we are joined by NJ211, who are an information-based organization with the purpose of providing resources in times of crisis to residents of New Jersey.

In this episode we are providing an update on Family Connects NJ after launching the program in five counties last January. We're talking impact of the program and what we have to look forward to with the expansion into 6 additional counties.

In this heartwarming holiday episode of "DCF on the Air," we delve into the impactful work of One Simple Wish, a remarkable New Jersey-based non-profit dedicated to granting wishes for children in foster care and vulnerable families. Join your host Jason Butkowski as we explore the inspiring stories behind the wishes, talk to the people who make them happen, and learn how this community-driven initiative is changing lives, one wish at a time.

Join us for another episode of "DCF On The Air," where we dive into the pressing issue of youth mental health in New Jersey. We're thrilled to partner with 2NDFLOOR, an extraordinary helpline that offers anonymous and confidential support to the youth of New Jersey 24/7. Through a heartfelt conversation with the team at 2NDFLOOR, we explore: The severity of the youth mental health crisis in NJ, where 1 in 3 teen boys and 3 in 5 teen girls experience persistent sadness. The journey of the 2NDFLOOR helpline, now having touched over a million young lives with trauma-informed care. How the inclusion of young voices shapes more effective and empathetic services, leading to transformative apps that foster digital engagement and peer support. The power of maintaining a safe space where teens feel free and emotionally secure to discuss their struggles. How stigma is steadily diminishing, encouraging more youth to seek the help they need. Insights into the development process of 2NDFLOOR’s app, which provides personal, confidential engagement while ensuring support in crisis situations through compassionate intervention. Understanding the necessity of a solid support system for the staff handling these crisis communications. Moving success stories illustrating the app's life-changing impact on New Jersey’s youth. Tune in as we unravel the development, impact, and future vision of the Second Floor helpline and its continued commitment to fostering a supportive environment for all young individuals.

In this episode of DCF on the Air, we're shedding light on New Jersey's adoption registry. Dating back to 1977, the adoption registry plays a pivotal role in connecting adoptees with their roots, emphasizing the significance of access to available birth information for adoptees. We talk to our staff within our Office of Adoptions to share insights of adoption and the steps being taken to support adoptees and birth families.

In this episode of "DCF on The Air," host Jason Bukowski sits down with leaders from New Jersey's Division on Women (DOW) within the Department of Children and Families (DCF). Since its inception in 1974, the DOW has been a steadfast advocate for women's rights and interests. We'll dive into the pivotal milestones of DOW, tackling paramount issues such as: Domestic violence Sexual violence Employment readiness Intersectionality Discover the essential role of culturally specific providers in aiding survivors, the transformative "Domestic Violence Housing First" model, and a look ahead at DOW's future goals of promoting equity and supporting underserved communities. Join us as we celebrate the golden anniversary of a division that's been at the forefront of championing women's rights for half a century. Keywords: Division on Women, DOW, Department of Children and Families, DCF, New Jersey, women's rights, domestic violence, sexual violence, employment readiness, intersectionality, culturally specific providers, domestic violence housing first, celebration, equity, underserved communities

Description: Tune in to our latest episode as we delve into the groundbreaking work of the Office of Family Voice within the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF). Learn how this office, inspired by Commissioner Beyer’s listening tour, is prioritizing family involvement in decision-making and fostering shared leadership. Episode Highlights: Understanding the mission and goals of the Office of Family Voice. Initiatives by the DCF Youth Council to support youth transitioning to adulthood, mental health, and access to case records. Celebrating significant achievements like the Sibling Bill of Rights and the NJYRS website. Insights into the DADS Council’s work to engage fathers in the child welfare system and reduce bias. Efforts to enhance training for staff and involve fathers in the training process. The role of the Parent Council and the new Lived Experience Expert Partnership (LEEP) consultancy. Join us as we explore the vital role of family voices in shaping New Jersey’s child welfare policies and practices. Follow and rate our podcast to stay updated on more inspiring stories and initiatives!

Welcome to a new episode of DCF On The Air! This episode shines a spotlight on the transformative work of the Office of Family Preservation and Reunification Services (OFPR) within New Jersey's child welfare system. Our focus is on how OFPR is revolutionizing family services to keep families intact and prevent out-of-home placements. Join us as we discuss: The mission to support families as intact units and prevent out-of-home placements. Comprehensive services offered by OFPR, including family preservation programs, in-home family support, and visitation services. How these services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each family, focusing on areas such as parenting, concrete needs, and mental health. The shift towards a holistic and family-centered approach in child welfare. Key Takeaways: The OFPR's commitment to supporting intact family units and preventing out-of-home placements. Insights into family preservation programs, in-home family support, and visitation services. Understanding the evolution of child welfare services towards a holistic and family-centered model. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to DCF On The Air and the Role of OFPR 01:01 Transforming the Child Welfare System: Preventing Out-of-Home Placements 03:33 Supporting Reunification: The Launch of Supportive Visitation Services 07:05 Family Preservation Services: Supporting Families in Crisis 09:07 Visitation Services: Supporting the Goal of Reunification 19:02 Family Preservation Services: A Combination of Prevention and Protection 20:32 Culturally Competent and Adaptable Services for Diverse Family Structures 33:42 The Exchange Parent Aid Program: Providing Support and Concrete Assistance 42:26 Supporting Families to Keep Children in Their Homes 44:18 The Evolution of Services: A Holistic and Family-Centered Approach Tune in to learn how OFPR is making a significant impact on the lives of families across New Jersey!

In this episode, we provide an insightful update on the New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services (NJ4S) program, which is dedicated to delivering mental wellness and prevention services to students and families across New Jersey schools. Join us as we discuss: The success of NJ4S in engaging thousands of families with tier one services. The integration of NJ4S into the existing youth mental wellness infrastructure and the importance of building strong relationships with schools and community stakeholders. The tiered approach of NJ4S, including universal supports, evidence-based programs, and individual counseling. The significance of incorporating local voices—parents, students, and community experts—in shaping the program. The process of reviewing proposals and selecting agencies to implement the NJ4S program. The importance of effective communication and collaboration with the community and families. Innovative outreach and marketing strategies to promote the program. The critical role of engaging youth and addressing mental well-being as part of the larger continuum of mental health care. Key Takeaways: NJ4S aims to provide comprehensive mental wellness and prevention services to New Jersey students and families. Successful engagement with thousands of families through tier one services. Importance of integrating NJ4S into existing infrastructure and building relationships with stakeholders. Tiered approach offering universal supports, evidence-based programs, and individual counseling. Involving local voices and diverse stakeholders in shaping and implementing the program. Effective communication and collaboration with the community are crucial. Innovative outreach strategies to promote NJ4S. Engaging youth in mental well-being efforts is vital for overall mental health care. Keywords: New Jersey, mental wellness, prevention services, NJ4S, students, families, schools, tiered approach, counseling, community stakeholders, local voice, mental health care Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to NJ4S and the Mental Health Crisis 04:00 Integrating NJ4S into the Existing Infrastructure 06:09 Building Relationships with Schools and Stakeholders 07:07 Engaging High-Need School Districts 14:13 The Importance of Tier One Services 18:25 The Tiered Approach of NJ4S 24:13 Building Intergenerational Resilience 29:42 Incorporating the Local Voice in NJ4S 30:39 Building Local Advisory Boards and Involving Diverse Stakeholders 32:00 Effective Communication and Collaboration with the Community 35:31 Innovative Approaches to Outreach and Marketing 40:28 Engaging Youth and Addressing Mental Well-being 46:53 Flexibility and Patience in the First Year of Implementation Tune in to learn how NJ4S is making a significant impact on the mental wellness of students and families across New Jersey.

DCF | Family Success Centers (nj.gov) In this episode of "DCF On the Air," we explore the pivotal role of Family Success Centers in New Jersey's child welfare system. The New Jersey Department of Children and Families is shifting towards a prevention mindset, reallocating resources from reactionary child protective services to upstream prevention. Learn how Family Success Centers offer tailored, in-community supports designed to build resilience and strengthen family connections. Discover how these centers provide a welcoming environment where family voices and shared leadership are prioritized, allowing parents to direct the work of the centers. Join us as we delve into the policies, procedures, and implementation support that make these centers a cornerstone of preventive care in New Jersey. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Adopting a Prevention Mindset 03:12 Family Success Centers: Meeting Families Where They're At 05:09 Understanding Prevention as a Continuum 08:21 Supporting Families in Need of Protective Services 11:32 Creating a Welcoming Environment at Family Success Centers 13:02Family Voice and Shared Leadership in Prevention Efforts 15:23 Building Resilience and Connections within Families 18:16 Partnership with Families in Prevention Work 19:13 Engaging Parents in Directing the Work of Family Success Centers 24:02 Shifting the Narrative: From Child Welfare to Family Wellbeing 25:30 Investing in Each Family Member: The Role of Family Success Centers 27:25 Supporting Family Success Centers: Policies, Procedures, and Implementation 31:21 Honoring Child Abuse Prevention Month

In this episode of DCF On The Air, we will be talking to the codesigners of DCF's documentary "Truth To Transformation" ahead of the film's debut at the Garden State Film Festival this March! Truth to Transformation is an unflinching and powerful look at child welfare in America through the eyes of three people who experienced firsthand the trauma and complexities of being a part of the foster care system. Through their voices, lived experiences, and willingness to co-design the future, NJ’s child welfare system is being transformed into a children and family serving agency that aims to assist, empower and heal.