CFSA Premiered Resilience

Last month, CFSA premiered Resilience at Miracle Theatre in Washington, DC. The event included a prescreening reception celebrating the agency's milestone achievements. The documentary chronicled the three-decade LaShawn lawsuit, revealing CFSA's transformative journey and its nationwide impact on child welfare practices.

The event also marked a celebration of resilience and change, featuring a dynamic panel discussion with key changemakers exploring legal challenges, the agency's experiences, and valuable lessons. Stay tuned for details on a January 2024 screening at the agency.

Director Matthews' Insightful Session at the Aspen Institute

Director Matthews joined a panel last month at the Aspen Institute's Ascending Together: A Vision for Families in DC - Convening II. The event's primary objectives were to explore opportunities and challenges, define strategic priorities, and foster collaboration and partnership.

In his compelling address, Director Matthews not only outlined the agency's overarching mission and vision for keeping DC families together but also shared insightful updates from the 211 Warmline. Additionally, he emphasized the significant influence of individuals with lived experiences in shaping the innovative practice models of the agency. Click here to see more photos.

CFSA Surpasses One Fund Goal

Hooray and congratulations! Our CFSA family not only met but surpassed our ambitious goal of raising $40,000. As of now, our collective efforts propelled us to an outstanding total of $40,058.78! This is a testament to the incredible dedication and generosity of each one of you. 

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in reaching this milestone. Your enthusiasm and commitment made this achievement possible. We couldn't be prouder of what we've accomplished together. 

But wait, the celebration doesn't stop here! Let's keep the momentum going and soar even higher. There's still time to contribute and surpass our expectations*. 

*You might get a message that the site is unsecured. Click “Continue to site” to make your One Fund contribution. 

CFSA Supports Alternative Therapies for District Youth

Councilmembers Janeese Lewis George and Christina Henderson convened a joint public hearing on Wednesday to discuss B25-0500, the Alternative Restorative Therapy (ART) Options for Youth Amendment Act of 2023. The session delved into mental health challenges within the District's child welfare and adolescent behavioral health systems.

CFSA Deputy Director Nicole Gilbert testified on the agency's behalf. She expressed CFSA's strong support for the bill, highlighting existing mental health initiatives, including alternative therapies like animal-assisted therapy and applied behavioral analysis therapy. Gilbert acknowledged system challenges and emphasized CFSA's dedication to collaboration with the Department of Behavioral Health to address ongoing mental health needs in the District.

Winners Announced at the Return of the Mac & Chili Showdown

Last week, CFSA's talented staff showcased their exceptional culinary skills, presenting various kinds of chili and mac n' cheese for attendees to savor and judge. Participants voted in four categories: Classic Chili, Creative Chili, Classic Mac n' Cheese, and Creative Mac n' Cheese. The event also encouraged a suggested donation to the DC One Fund. 

We are thrilled to announce the winners. Marina Havan took the top spot for her exceptional Venison Chili. Elizabeth Malomo's Chili Chili Bang Bang secured a well-deserved runner-up position. In the Mac & Cheese competition, Kristin Glazier took it with her savory Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese. Click here to see the photos. Congratulations to Marina, Elizabeth, and Kristin!

Holiday Wellness

Staying healthy during the holidays, both physically and mentally, can be a challenge. With festive gatherings featuring rich foods and drinks, coupled with disrupted routines due to busy schedules, making healthy choices becomes difficult. Here are some tips for a healthier holiday celebration:

• Healthier Ways for the Holidays
• Stress Less, Smile More

Stay Tuned for New Episodes of Tuesday Talk with the Director

Check your inbox this week for a new episode of Tuesday Talk with the Director, where our Director, Robert L. Matthews, covers the latest trends and topics impacting our CFSA family.

Eligibility Team Organizational and Operational Changes

The Business Services Administration's Eligibility Team underwent organizational changes, welcoming new members and refining workflows in the past year. We've condensed vital information on Medicaid and Title IV-E into a resource for social workers. For Medicaid inquiries, email cfsa.medicaid@dc.gov, and for child IV-E eligibility and related questions, use cfsa.IVE@dc.gov for better tracking. The team guarantees swift acknowledgment and progress updates. Check out this document on the social workers' collaborative role in ensuring seamless program operations.

200 I Street Evacuation Drill: Self-Evacuation Assessment

Yesterday, CFSA conducted a vital evacuation drill at our 200 I Street SE Headquarters. The primary focus was to familiarize everyone with evacuation routes for future reference, ensuring a quick and safe response to alarms. Here's a self-evacuation checklist with emergency tips and assembly area locations. Your participation is crucial; please complete the after-drill survey to provide detailed feedback for improvement. Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining a secure work environment.

Dress to Impress for CFSA's "Star-Studded Affair"

Get ready for "CFSA’s Star-Studded Affair" on December 13, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Conference Room 2203 A&B. As the office party approaches, let's plan our outfits with a touch of class. Showcase your style while maintaining professionalism. Dress to impress and make this celebration unforgettable!

Click the image below for upcoming highlights from our emcees: Dr. Keena Blackmon and Joseph Jenkins.

OWB's Successful DC One Fund Pop-up

The OWB's DC One Fund Pop-Up, held on Wednesday, featured a delightful array of sweets during their Baked Goods Giveaway. During the event, which encouraged a donation to the DC One Fund, CFSA staff participated in a raffle for a chance to win gift cards and prizes. The event ended with a Ugly Sweater group photo. Click here for more photos. 

Career Opportunities at CFSA

We’re looking for great people to join our team.

• 24213 – Revenue Accounting Specialist (Claiming Program Coordinator) | Closing Date: 12/16/2023
• 24219 – Social Worker (Associate) | Closing Date: 01/26/2024
• 24229 – Social Worker (LGSW/LICSW) | Closing Date: 01/24/2024
• 24266 – Program Specialist | Closing Date: 12/18/2023
• 24272 – Senior Human Resources Specialist (Classification) | Closing Date: 12/28/2023

Anyone interested in applying to any of these vacancies can do so through PeopleSoft. Please forward these career opportunities if you know someone looking to join CFSA.

December 8, 2023