Dear Providers,

As you are aware, we are currently under the Kenny A. consent decree which is a class action lawsuit filed on behalf of children in foster care in Fulton and DeKalb counties in Georgia. One of the goals for Kenny A. improvement outcomes is to eradicate maltreatment in care. Therefore, a zero tolerance campaign was initiated in April 2016. Georgia’s investment in collaborative relationships with stakeholders was identified as a strength. "A key pillar of the governor’s ‘Blueprint for Change’ strategic plan includes a focus on constituent engagement that further demonstrates the state’s commitment to collaborative partnerships.”

There are key characteristics which need to be addressed to ensure that children are safe and are thriving. Child vulnerabilities, caregiver protective capacities, and leadership/organization are among those characteristics. Also, there is a need to strengthen ongoing training of caregivers, and establish certification training for direct care workers in Child Caring Institutions.

The Office of Provider Management is aligned with this mission and supports the integration of stakeholder engagement and alignment of key planning and reporting structures. Therefore, OPM intends to formulate a work group to specifically develop certified training for direct care workers in Child Caring Institutions.

OPM will randomly select a total of six (6) RBWO providers to include four (4) CCIs and three (2) TLP providers. If your agency is interested in participating in this work group please contact Samuel Pittman, OPM Training and Curriculum Specialist, via email at samuel.pittman@dhs.ga.gov by COB, Monday, 3/29/2017. Notification of selected providers will be emailed no later than Friday, 3/31/2017.

Thank You,

The Office of Provider Management