Community Connection Newsletter March 2026

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Community Connection Newsletter - DFPS Faith-Based and Community Engagement

Shining a Light: Community Partners Unite Against Human Trafficking

Human Trafficking Banner

Pictured (top left): Child Welfare Board members in Region 1. Pictured (bottom center): FBCE Specialist Monica Alaniz in Region 11 with Coastal Bend Coordinated Community Response Coalition members.

The Castro, Swisher, Terry, and Hockley Child Welfare Boards launched impactful efforts to educate and inform their communities in honor of Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Through intentional outreach and awareness initiatives, board members shone a light on the realities of human trafficking, equipping community members with knowledge, resources, and actionable steps.

The Coastal Bend Coordinated Community Response Coalition (CBCCRC) also joined together in solidarity for Human Trafficking Awareness Month. CBCCRC is a multidisciplinary partnership that works collaboratively with community partners to raise awareness, educate the public, and strengthen coordinated efforts to prevent human trafficking and support victims across the Coastal Bend region. 


Community Contributions at Work: Supporting Children and Families

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Pictured (left): FBCE Specialists Brenda Oliver and Candice Ramos in Region 6 with Girl Scouts. Pictured (right): FBCE Specialists Brenda Jones and Teoahnna Mayo in Region 7 with Travis County Child Welfare Board members.

Small acts, big impact 💛 Girl Scouts gave back by supporting children and families in need through a meaningful donation drive for the Rainbow Room in San Jacinto County. They collected essential items and wrote heartfelt notes to thank caseworkers for their dedication.

The Travis County Child Welfare Board exemplified the power of partnership by supporting children and families in need through a generous donation to the Rainbow Room in Austin.


Raising Awareness: APS Boards Fight Against Elder Abuse

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Pictured (left): FBCE Specialist Norma Rodriguez, Terry Palacios, Hidalgo County District Attorney, Silver Ribbon Community APS Board members, and 5K participants in the South District. Pictured (right): FBCE Specialist Jennifer (Shelly) Shaw with Henderson County APS Advisory Board members in East District-Region 4.

The Silver Ribbon APS Community Board sponsored its 2nd Annual 5K Run/Walk & Resource Fair to raise awareness to end elder abuse. Special guest speakers included Omar Ochoa, City of Edinburg Mayor, and Terry Palacios, Hidalgo County District Attorney. The community showed up, taking steps together to make a difference while enjoying fitness, family fun and learning about valuable local resources.

The Henderson County APS Board hosted a fundraiser, “Grillin’ for Good,” in support of a great cause. The community joined together to raise awareness about elder abuse prevention and make a meaningful impact.


FBCE Unites Partners to Safeguard Vulnerable Adults

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Pictured (left to right): Dallas County APS Community Board members, FBCE Specialists Sue Ellen Stalder and Nisaa Muhammad; and APS District Director, Ramona Black in DFW District-Region 3. Pictured (right): Laura Ponce, CRCG member; FBCE Specialist Grace Ortiz; and Raquel Lauretano, CRCG member in the Austin/El Paso District-Region 10.

The FBCE Team in DFW District hosted the Partnering to Protect Annual Resource Fair at Tarrant County United Way. More than 25 community partners gathered to share vital resources, connect with APS staff, and strengthen collaboration.

Health and Human Services (HHS) recognized outstanding leaders statewide through the Community Resource Coordination Groups Initiative. FBCE Specialist Grace Ortiz, Chair of the CRCG for Adults, was honored for her leadership, collaboration, and meaningful community impact.

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