'Caring For Kids' Monthly Newsletter

Information for

Lucas County voters 

Lucas County Children Services receives half of its operating revenue from a series of property tax measures that periodically come before voters for reconsideration. On November 4, Lucas County voters will decide whether to renew one of these property tax measures. Owners of a home valued at $100,000 will continue to pay $39 annually, based on residential property values as they existed when the tax was originally passed. In total, the five-year renewal would generate about $14 million annually for children services.

Empowering the Next Generation: Lucas County Children Services Paves the Way for Emancipating Teens

At Lucas County Children Services, there is a dedicated team working tirelessly to support a growing population of youth transitioning to independent living. With approximately 200 teens, ages 14 and up, currently in their care, the LCCS caseworkers are committed to shattering stereotypes and ensuring these young adults are as prepared as possible for the road ahead. >> LEARN MORE

LCCS Begins

New Fellowship Program 

Lucas County Children Services is offering a new fellowship program to encourage students studying fields other than social work to consider a career in child protective services. >> LEARN MORE

Interested in becoming 
a foster parent? 

Join LCCS staff and current foster/adoptive parents on the Sandpiper and learn more about the need for more foster homes, the requirements, the process of becoming a foster parent, and the way you can make a difference in a child's life. 

Tuesday, October 21, 2025 | 6-8pm 

RSVPs are limited 

COMPLETE ONLINE FORM

or contact Sherry Dunn @ 419-213-3476 | sherry.dunn@jfs.ohio.gov

* RSVP Deadline: Friday, October 17th

The Sandpiper is docked near the corner of Water Street and Jefferson Avenue in downtown Toledo | 1 Jefferson Ave, Toledo, OH 43604

Welcome Dedra Brown 
to the PEI Team! 

We’re thrilled to welcome Dedra Brown to the Parent Empowerment Institute as our newest Parent Advocate! Drawing from her own powerful lived experience, Dedra brings compassion, strength, and deep insight to her work supporting parents and families. 

A dedicated youth mentor and crime prevention advocate, Dedra has transformed her journey into one of healing and service—earning recognition from the NAACP for her impact in the community.  



>> Click here to read more about Dedra and her inspiring story. 

Ready to Open Your Heart and Home?

Join Our October Foster & Adoptive Parent Training!

Are you passionate about making a lasting difference in a child’s life? We invite you to join us this October for an engaging, in-person training designed to guide you through becoming a foster or adoptive parent right here in Lucas County!

Training Dates:

Friday, October 17 – Sunday, October 19, 2025

Location:

Northwest Ohio Regional Training Center 
(301 Adams St., Toledo, OH 43604)

How to Join:

Signing up is easy! Pick the way that works best for you:

• Fill out our quick online Pre-Service Registration Form
• Give us a call at 419-213-3336
• Email us at Lucaskids-Recruitment@jfs.ohio.gov

Learn more and take the first step on your incredible journey at: https://lucaskids.net/pre-service-training/

Make a difference that lasts a lifetime — start your journey today!