Children and Family Services Awarded Seals of Recognition for Second Consecutive Year
Last year, the Adams County Children and Family Services (CFS) Division, under the Human Services Department, became the first child welfare agency in Colorado awarded two seals from the Human Rights Campaign. In 2020, the division has repeated its success by again earning both seals – the You Are Welcome Here seal, which certifies the division as an LGBTQ welcoming and affirming agency, and the Recognized Innovator in Supporting and Serving LGBTQ Youth & Families seal.
“This recognition affirms our efforts to embody our vision of being the most innovative and inclusive county in America,” said Emma Pinter, Board of County Commissioners Chair. “It’s great to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign, an outstanding organization with incredible dedication, and it’s also the right thing to do to make sure all our residents know they are supported and valued.”
CFS began the process to seek this recognition in 2017, and their efforts have been recognized for the second consecutive year both in Colorado, where Gov. Jared Polis honored the achievement in a public press conference, and nationally by the Human Rights Campaign in their outreach materials. The idea was initiated by CFS staff and fully supported by county leadership.
“We are committed to modeling a culture that leads in diversity, equity and inclusivity” said County Manager Raymond Gonzales.
To earn these seals, CFS had to demonstrate proficiency in non-discrimination (both client and employment), staff training, rolling out the welcome mat (LGBTQ-inclusive forms and visual cues), parent best practices, youth best practices, and sustainability and capacity building.
“The credit for this falls squarely on our hard-working staff in the Children and Family Services division,” said Katie Griego, Human Services Department Director. “They are continually committed to serving their clients, with a special focus on supporting LGBTQ youth, families, and foster families.”
The Human Rights Campaign is the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer civil rights organization, and they envision a world where LGTBQ people are ensured of their basic equal rights and can be open, honest, and safe at home, at work, and in the community. Learn more at hrc.org.