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DSS to host second monthly Web Cast Wednesday, October 7

Topic: Need for improved services for children with mental health issues

October 02, 2009

The Department of Children & Family Services (DSS) will host a Web cast Wednesday, October 7, focused on best practices in the development of a coordinated system of care for children served in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. It is the second in a series of monthly Web casts and part of the agency's efforts to foster leadership and innovation in social service delivery, increase savings and efficiencies and improve client outcomes.

"After the success of last month's Web cast, we are excited to offer another opportunity to hear from a national expert and develop ideas to improve Louisiana's social services delivery system," said DSS Secretary Kristy Nichols. "These discussions will help lay the groundwork for the design of a comprehensive system that will serve Louisiana's most vulnerable population of children and youth."

October's Web cast will feature Dr. Robert Friedman, professor at the University of South Florida's Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute and Director of the Research and Training Center for Children's Mental Health in Tampa. Dr. Friedman will speak about the need for and implementation of improved services and outcomes for children with serious emotional and/or behavioral disorders and their families.

Members of DSS' Leadership Forum Advisory Board and participants in the Innovation in Louisiana Government Fellowship will join DSS stakeholders and interested members of the public for the Web cast.

The Web cast will be held from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2009. To register as a participant, visit https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/387845715. After registering, participants will receive an e-mail with information about joining the Web cast, which will be accessible via internet or telephone. Opportunities to ask questions will be available through the GoToMeeting Web site. Contact Brandon Reeves at (225) 342-6775 with questions.

For more information about DSS leadership and innovation initiatives, visit www.dss.louisiana.gov/leadership.