in late 2019, the Office of Advocacy and Reform was created in Pennsylvania with the intent of overhauling state systems and services and identifying strategies to better protect vulnerable individuals. In addition to convening a council of reform, the position of Child Advocate was created and has recently been filled by Nicole Yancy, J.D. Ms. Yancy will be a liaison between the systems serving children and their families, triaging concerns and complaints, and making recommendations for system-wide improvements.
The Office of Children, Youth and Families, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and the Office and Advocacy and Reform, is conducting roundtables around the state to engage local child welfare agencies, county leaders, advocates and elected officials in brainstorming ways to improve the child welfare system. The roundtables are an opportunity to openly discuss the struggles faced by child welfare agencies, and to develop recommendations on strength-based and solution-focused outcomes. Read more about the first roundtable held in York County.