September 2024 Open Line
Every Child TN is here!
Over 1,500 Tennesseans gathered this month to celebrate the new Every Child TN initiative! During the event at Belmont University, Commissioner Quin took the stage with GFBCI’s Lance Villio to share the vision for the Every Child TN initiative. Other speakers and notable guests included Governor Lee, Dolly Parton, Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins, and Chris and Lauren Tomlin.
A special thank you to Lindsay Coleman for her dedication and hard work with the Every Child leadership council in developing this important initiative. Thanks to her efforts and the efforts of others on the council, over 500 new Tennesseans and faith communities have already stepped up to support the cause.
Honoring Rosie Heath for 30 Years of Service!
Rosie Heath, a dedicated DCS employee with 30 years of service, was recently honored with a resolution passed by the Tennessee General Assembly. Throughout her career, she served in various roles including frontline worker in foster care, Center for Adoption coordinator, kinship placement promoter, and most recently, Deputy Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children Administrator.
Supportive Living Home Empowers Women Transitioning from Foster Care
A newly opened Supportive Independent Living Home in Memphis is offering young adult women transitioning out of foster care a unique opportunity to face adulthood with the support they need. This initiative aims to provide these women with life skills and mentorship in a safe, rent-free environment. We’re thankful Frank Mix, Executive Director of Network Development, was able to attend the ribbon cutting for this important program.
Celebrating Success with the TN Strong Families Program!
We're always happy to share success stories within the TN Strong Families Program!
The Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging partners with the Tennessee Department of Children's Services to provide support to children who have intellectual and developmental disabilities and are in state custody. Foster families have access to TN Strong Families funds to get their children the assistance they need.
Watch and learn about the benefits of the program and read real-life stories about how the funds were a game changer in the quality of life for some kiddos!
For more information on how to access TN Strong Families Program Funds for your child, click here.
Recent Adoptions! 🎉❤️
We are thrilled to celebrate the recent adoptions of several wonderful children and the loving families who have welcomed them into their homes. Congratulations to all the children and families who had their adoptions finalized recently! Here are a few of them:
Congratulations to the Atchley family!
Congrats to the Lamar family!
Congratulations to the Lewis family!
Need Something Printed? Look no further!
Check out the newly released DCS Printing Guidelines on the DCS intranet! This comprehensive step-by-step guide provides everything you need to ensure your next print project goes smoothly. Whether you're working on a small flyer or a large publication, these guidelines will help you achieve the best results.
Adventure Ahead…🎢 Dollywood to Give FREE ADMISSION to Foster Children!
Starting in Spring 2025, Dollywood will offer a complimentary day pass to any foster care child living in TN! Details coming soon on how foster families can sign up.
ETV & Bright Futures Scholarship Information
If you or someone you know were in DCS custody at age 16 or older and are under 26, you may now qualify for post-secondary scholarships! 🎓✨
The eligibility age for both the Education & Training Voucher (ETV) and the Bright Futures Scholarship has been extended to 26, offering more time and opportunities to achieve your educational goals.
Edison Contact Information
Ensure your primary email in your Edison account is your official state email ending in TN.gov. Both DCS and DOHR rely on this email to share important updates and information. Don’t miss out—verify your email today!
To get started, visit the “My System Profile” section by clicking your name in the top right corner of the Edison homepage.
Keep an Eye Out for CCWIS Newsletters
Be sure to check your inbox for the latest newsletter from the DCS, STS, and Vendor Partners on the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS) Modernization Project. Stay informed about the project's progress and how it will enhance the safety and well-being of children in our state!
Congrats to Our Newest TGEI Graduates!
We are so proud to announce three DCS leaders recently graduated from the Tennessee Government Executive Institute, a program that exists to prepare state government leaders for public service and stewardship. Congratulations to Jacquie Schultz, Michael Flanery-Gray, and Rebecca Bevans!
