The MASSB Minute

Greetings, everyone. As our local advisory committees evolve and mature because of new members joining and newly elected chairs leading them, there is an important component of success we need to always keep in mind. Establishing strong and mutual relationships with the local Department of Social Services (DSS) is crucial for our mission to support vulnerable populations effectively.

Develop and sustain collaborative relationships with your DSS Director through open communication and shared focus on programs. This can be strengthened further by aligning an advisory board's strategic plan with the department's objectives. As evidenced by the MASSB Lifting Lives projects, our cumulative efforts have made a positive difference in our communities by addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.

Best,
Tony

With Father's Day just around the corner, we want to express our gratitude for DSS programs that support fathers. Here are a few of our Lifting Lives (formerly Innovative Program) Award Winners that celebrated Dads:

"The Power of Dad" — Dorchester County (2016). DSS, DCPS, and the Community Partnership for Children and Families sponsored an inaugural Fatherhood Roundtable featuring impactful speakers, workshops and discussion, followed by a "Fatherhood BBQ," Father and Children Photo Day, and a Power of Dad Conference.

"DADS' Connection" — Washington County (2021). Housed within Washington County's Family Center, the program offers a Parent Education Program, Job Readiness skills training, and financial support to obtain a GED — connecting fathers with jobs that help them meet their child support obligations.

"Dads R Us" — Prince George's County (2019). PGCDSS created a safe place for dads to share experiences, joys, and challenges with their peers while trained staff support the group process, improving the quality of father-child relationships and stabilizing families. The pilot program has trained over 125 PGCDSS staff who serve fathers in the child welfare system.

Monthly board meetings are great for connecting with your Director and discussing community needs. But dedicating a larger block of time each year for brainstorming and developing goals and plans will accelerate your board's impact. Find a time when most (or ideally all) of your members can meet for at least half a day. Schedule a conference room at a library or other venue. Develop a structured agenda to keep discussion on track. Need help? E-mail trustee@massbfoundation.org for assistance from one of our experienced members. Good luck!

"Our board is new, our DSS director retired in December, and most of the board reached the end of their appointed term around the same time. I would identify our biggest challenge currently as finding our identity as a new board. We are committed to serving the people of Charles County and ensuring the most vulnerable get the assistance that they need while working to create or renew partnerships with the community that benefit the people.

This year we hope to accomplish our mission by leveraging our relationships with the Charles County business community. We are introducing a micro grant initiative that will provide reimbursement to businesses who exemplify the mission and values of the CCDSS advisory board and assist those in need. We have also created a resource list known as After 21, intended to support individuals as they age out of foster care in Charles County, covering housing, education, employment, financial literacy, and trusted adults.

My advice to a new chair is threefold: know when to ask questions, learn from anyone willing to extend knowledge or experience, and have a personal vision in addition to the vision of the board."