Under the West Texas Together initiative, family preservation providers gathered in Odessa for a Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Reporting 101 Training hosted at Methodist Children’s Home, Outreach Center (MCH) by MCH, DFPS, and Winners Circle Group of Texas. With 18 people in attendance, the event created an opportunity for providers to strengthen their understanding of reporting responsibilities and to grow in their shared commitment to protecting children and supporting families.
Trainings like this matter because they help build a stronger foundation for those serving on the front lines of care. Clear, accurate reporting is an important part of child safety, but it also connects to the larger work of family preservation. When providers understand the process, communicate well, and work from the same baseline, families are better served and children are better protected.
Beyond the content itself, the training also reflected the value of local collaboration. Bringing together providers in the same room helps strengthen relationships, encourages shared learning, and reminds us that this work is not meant to be done in isolation. Supporting children and families well takes informed professionals, strong partnerships, and a community willing to keep showing up.
We are grateful to MCH and Winners Circle for hosting this important training and for investing in the people who serve families every day in our region.