West Texas Together: 2023 Accomplishments Summary
West Texas Together (WTT) made substantial progress in 2023 through strategic partnerships, data-driven insights, systems change initiatives, and community engagement efforts – all focused on better supporting vulnerable children and families in the region. As part of the West Texas Together collective, these accomplishments reflect the commitment to harness the unique strengths of Permian Basin and Concho Valley communities to drive positive, lasting change in the local child welfare system.
We look forward to building on this momentum in 2024, making further improvements guided by the insights and groundwork established this year. WTT remains dedicated to being a driving force for nurturing, supporting, and creating brighter futures in our community.
These accomplishments reflect our commitment to building strong partnerships, gathering valuable insights, and implementing initiatives to better support vulnerable children and families in our community. We look forward to building on these successes and continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.
- Established Partnerships with MISD: Developed strong relationships with Midland Independent School District (MISD) through the Deputy Superintendent and foster care liaison. Provided training
to registrars and school counselors on trauma-informed approaches to better support youth in foster care. - Collaboration with Superior Health Plan: Engaged in extensive collaboration with Superior Health Plan to clarify their responsibilities concerning the identification of behavioral health providers in the region.
- Statewide Survey on CBC: Successfully conducted a statewide survey to gather experiences and opinions from diverse stakeholders in regions already navigating Community-Based Care (CBC). The insights gathered will inform a tailored and more effective approach for West Texas.
- Planning for Special Court: Initiated planning for a special court dedicated to dually involved youth in the juvenile justice system and foster care. This initiative aims to improve outcomes and provide specialized support for this vulnerable population.
- Survey on Training Needs: Released a survey to identify the training needs and preferences of foster, adoptive, and kinship caregivers. The data collected will inform the development of a comprehensive training plan to better support all caregivers.
- Kinship Family Support: Created and distributed baskets for kinship families, providing practical support and demonstrating care for these vital caregivers within the community.
- Regional Discussion on CBC: Hosted a regional discussion on Community-Based Care (CBC) in collaboration with the Office of Community Based Care Transitions (OCBCT) and Texas Alliance of Child and Family Services (TACFS), facilitating dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders.
- Hosted Successful Community Q&A Sessions: Conducted community Q&A sessions to recruit families interested in becoming foster and/or adoptive parents, contributing to the expansion of our caregiver network and ultimately enhancing support for children in need of stable homes.
As we reflect on the significant milestones achieved in 2023, we are deeply grateful for the commitment and support received from our community partners and stakeholders. However, our journey is far from over and the work is far from complete. The needs of vulnerable children and families in our region persist. It is critical that we continue to foster a supportive community for all our neighbors.
Whether through volunteering your time, providing resources, or amplifying our collective voice, we need you. To join the movement, simply click this link and fill out the form.
Together, we can build upon the work that has been done and create a brighter, more nurturing future for every child in West Texas.