|
Prior to joining DCYF, I spent the last 20 years serving the Puyallup Tribal community in various capacities. I began my career with the Puyallup Tribe in the mental health field, and quickly learned that serving and advocating for children and families was my passion. I spent the previous 17 years working for the Puyallup Tribe Children’s Services, starting as a caseworker then transitioning to the Foster Care Licensing program at Puyallup Tribe. During the last 12 years of my employment with the Puyallup Tribe, I have been the Foster Home Licensor/Senior Trainer and more recently, the Child Placing Agency Program Manager for seven years.
Given the entirety of my career consists of serving Tribal populations, I feel that I will bring a strong voice of advocacy and partnership for Tribes, serving as the Tribal Foster Care Licensing Consultant. I look forward to developing relationships and partnering with Tribal Child Placing agencies as well as with Tribe’s who have established inter-governmental agreements with DCYF for licensing. As I pivot into my new career path, I am excited for new learning, partnerships, and the opportunity to impact change through the Tribal perspective.
Outside of work, my time is spent with my family and enjoying the outdoors. I’m an avid gardener and am fulfilled by bringing freshly harvested food to our dinner table. My family and I also love new adventures by way of traveling and road trips, as well as participating in local cultural events and powwows.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at Mandy.Morlin@dcyf.wa.gov.
Welcome Cassie Anderson, OTR Operations Manager
Tansi (Hello)
My name is Cassie Anderson (She/Her) and I am a Citizen of the Chippewa-Cree Tribe from the Rock Boys, located in Rocky Boy, Montana. I spent part of my childhood on the reservation until my family moved to Spokane. I obtained a Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Science degree in criminal justice and criminology from Portland State University. I was a NCAA Division I college track athlete. I threw the hammer, discus, and shotput.
|
I began my professional career working in the non-profit sector at the NATIVE Project. In 2006, I transitioned to state services and began working for Children’s Administration. I worked in various social worker programs within the ICW Unit from 2006-2011 (CPS, CFWS, FVS). I then became an ICW social work supervisor and supervised multiple program (CFWS, CPS, FVS, FAR, TPO case). In 2017, I accepted a position at the Healing Lodge of the Seven Nations as the Program and Support Services Director and spent six years in that role.
During my career, I have been fortunate enough to have roles that allows us to promote change, serve, and work towards finding solutions designed for better outcomes for our most vulnerable populations. I am comfortable being uncomfortable and having courageous conversations. I encourage honest, authentic, and respectful conversations as it promotes change.
|
|
 |
I currently reside in Spokane with my husband and two daughters, Camille (10) and PresLee (6). My husband is a local high school basketball coach, and my girls are competitive dancers; we spend our time at basketball games and dance competitions. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling.
Congratulations to Antonia Bancroft, our new Region 6 ICW Liaison/Tribal Consultation
My name is Antonia Bancroft. I am originally from Tuba City, Arizona, a small town located on the Navajo Indian reservation. I am of the Bitterwater clan, born of Zuni Edgewater and my maternal grandfather is of the Redstreak clan and my paternal grandfather is of the Tangle clan. I am a Diné relative residing on Cowlitz, Chinook, and Klickitat lands in Longview, Washington, with my husband and our son.
 |
|
I first got involved in child welfare work in 2017, and worked as a Social Service Specialist II in the Family Assessment Response unit. Eventually I became a Social Service Specialist III, and transitioned to Child Family Welfare Services at the Kelso DCYF office. After a few years working for DCYF, I changed over my with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe as an Indian Child Welfare Social Worker continuing my child welfare journey. Before my work in Washington State, I worked in various roles serving Tribal communities in Arizona and Idaho.
|
I’m beyond excited to start my new role as the Region 6 ICW Liaison/Tribal Consultation position within the Office of Tribal Relations. Previously I was the Tribal Child Welfare Early Learning Navigator with the PDG Child Welfare Early Learning Navigator Project, so I’m delighted to continue my work with OTR. I’m also thankful to share this space with Linda Vande Lune before she officially passes the torch on to me. I look forward to continuing all of the great work and service she has provided over the years. I look forward to building and maintaining relationships with our Tribal partners, and supporting Region 6 offices and staff.
Ahéhee' (Thank You), ~Antonia
OTR congratulates Reagan Henry on her new position at Inner City Fund (ICF). We all wish her the best in her new adventure!
It has been over six years since coming to DCYF. Being a part of the DCYF has been a pleasure. I have learned so much while being a part of this organization. It’s with gratitude that I announce my departure from DCYF as of June.
As the Licensing Division Tribal Specialist, it has been an honor to serve in the Office of Tribal Relations with the outstanding director, managers, and staff in partnership with the Tribal Sovereign Nations. The relationships I’ve built here mean the world to me, and so many people I now call friends. I know this significant work will continue through guidance from Tleena Ives and Wendy Thomas, who have been my true mentors.
I look forward to seeing all of you at national conferences and meetings in continued support for children, youth, and families.
Sincerely, Reagan Henry
A Bittersweet Farewell to Reagan Henry from Wendy Thomas
The Office of Tribal Relations would like to wish Reagan Henry, Licensing Division Tribal Specialist, the best of luck on her new journey. Reagan has accepted a new job opportunity with Inner City Fund (ICF) (https://www.icf.com/work/education/child-care) as the Child Care State-Tribal Coordination Consultant with the state. She will be building capacity, providing technical assistance, and child care consumer education on best practices. During Reagan’s time with DCYF she assisted Tribes from across the state with both child care and foster care licensing. Reagan’s knowledge and expertise in partnering and advocating for Tribes in the early learning and licensing arenas with be missed.
In Memory of Senator John McCoy
It’s with deep sadness that we share the loss of Senator John McCoy. McCoy, a Tulalip Tribal Member, was instrumental in his role as a Representative and Senator for the 38th Legislative District. He passed the Since Time Immemorial legislation, assisted in the creation of the Tribal Leader’s Congress on Education, and was a champion for issues on education, health, and natural resources.
 |
|
Some notable tribal specific legislation accomplishments include:
- SB 8703 (2019-2020) – Remembering the surviving children on Indian Boarding Schools
- SB 5078 (2019-2020) – Enacting the Native American voting rights act of Washington
- SB 6259 (2019-2020) – Improving the Indian Behavioral Health System
- SB 5079 (2017-2018) – Concerning dental health services in tribal settings
- SB 5028 (2017-2018) – Requiring teacher preparation programs to integrate Native American curriculum developed by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction into existing Pacific Northwest history and government requirements
- SB 5433 (2015-2016) – Requiring Washington’s tribal history, culture, and government be taught in the common schools
- SSB 6078 (2013-2014) – Recognizing “Native American Heritage Day”
- SB5656 (2011-2012) – Creating a state Indian Child Welfare Act
- SB 6175 (2011-2012) – Establishing a government-to-government relationship between state government and Indian tribes. (*Memorialized principles of the Centennial Accord and Millennium Agreement into state law)
- SB 5269 (2007-2008) – Establishing first peoples’ language, culture, and history teacher certification program
|
McCoy attended the Indian Policy for Early Learning (IPEL) on a regular basis and was a fierce advocate for tribal early learning. He’s credited with being the reason the former Department of Early Learning hired its Tribal Early Learning Liaison position. He was a humble servant leader, a good listener, and a remarkable mentor to many. Our condolences go out to all of his family and friends. He will be missed and remembered for the outstanding impact he made for tribal people and Washingtonians.
Na'ah Illahee Fund's Summer Youth Land Restoration & Food Sovereignty Cohorts for Indigenous Youth
It's that time of year again! Applications for Na'ah Illahee Fund's Summer Youth Land Restoration & Food Sovereignty Cohorts for Indigenous Youth are now open! There’s a July Cohort and August Cohort where Indigenous youth ages 13-25 will be able to participate in these paid opportunities to practice; land restoration and stewardship, plant identification, trail surfacing techniques, drainage, field experience, tools and safety, as well as career exploration into food sovereignty and plant medicine fields at Daybreak Star Cultural Center (5011 Bernie Whitebear Way, Seattle, WA 98199). Youth participants will receive a $500 stipend! All tools and equipment needed to work will be provided.
Any questions please contact Shanoa Pinkham at shanoa@naahillahee.org.
Behavioral Health Facilities Grants
Applications are now open for Children and Youth Residential Crisis Stabilization Programs (RCSP) and Adult or Child Crisis Stabilization Units (CSU). Grant funds can be used for new construction, renovation, and acquisition, and must result in an increased number of beds. The competitive funding round is open to nonprofits, for-profit businesses, public entities, and tribes who are either a community hospital or a community-based behavioral health provider.
Before beginning an application, please review the following:
Preapplications are due June 15 at 5 p.m.
For more information: Community Capital Facilities - Behavioral Health Facilities (wa.gov)
Prime Time Family & Preschool Funding Opportunity
Humanities Washington is accepting applications to host Prime Time Preschool and Prime time reading. These programs promote the love of reading, skill development, and school readiness. These grants include funding, materials, and assistance to these programs. Prime Time Preschool grants also allow hosts to provide meals, purchase gift books, and gift cards. Programs are available in an English-only or bilingual (Spanish/English) format.
The application period closes June 30, 2023.
Early Childhood Equity Grant Opportunity
It is not too late to apply for the Early Childhood Equity Grant. The grant application remains open until Friday, June 30, at 5 p.m. PDT.
Eligibility is open to:
- Licensed, certified, or certified for payment only child care providers with an open license in good standing
- License-exempt Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) providers serving children receiving state subsidies
- Licensed ECEAP/Early ECEAP sites
- ECEAP/Early ECEAP contractors
- Play and Learn Group Host Organizations recognized by Child Care Aware of Washington (CCA of WA) and currently receive funding and/or direct programming support from CCA of WA to actively provide direct and virtual education and materials to parents and FFN caregivers. This is the result of a contractual agreement between CCA of WA and the State of Washington and applies to Play and Learn Groups
DCYF has partnered with the Imagine Institute to facilitate a special technical assistance session that is just for tribal child care programs interested in applying for the Early Childhood Equity Grant! This is a great opportunity to learn more about the grant, and to ask any questions you may have about applying.
Perla from the Imagine Institute will be hosting a group TA session for Tribal programs from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20. Providers will be able to join through this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/6856718355
Can’t make it but still want to learn more? The Imagine Institute also offers weekly TA sessions! The date, time, and language for each upcoming session are:
- June 20 from 12 to 2 p.m.
- June 23 from 6 to 8 p.m.
- June 27 from 6 to 8 p.m.
The Imagine Institute will be adding additional days and times to this schedule depending on demand. To request a one-on-one session, please call (206) 492-5249.
Providers can register to attend one of these sessions here: https://imaginewa.org/ece-equity-grant-ta/. If you have any questions, please email ccsg@imaginewa.org.
Parent Advisory Group (PAG) Now Accepting Applications
DCYF is recruiting interested and qualified individuals to serve on the Parent Advisory Group. At DCYF, we believe parents are their children’s first and most important teachers.
We are recruiting for parents or guardians of a child or children between the ages of 0 to 17 who reside in the state of Washington and have experience with one or more services provided by DCYF or other state agencies, to include, but not limited to: Juvenile Rehabilitation, Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), Head Start, Child Care, Foster Care, Child Welfare, TANF, etc.
Applications are due by June 30, 2023.
English PAG application, Spanish PAG application, or Somali PAG application
For more information: https://dcyf.wa.gov/about/community-engagement/pag
Healthy Youth Survey Planning Committee
The Healthy Youth Survey Planning Committee is looking for student volunteers to participate in focus groups about a recently closed Helpline Naming Survey. The project will involve around three to five groups of about five to ten teens participating in some user testing of the new online survey platform for the Healthy Youth Survey.
The Healthy Youth Survey is a survey given in public schools to student in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. Teens who participate will be given a $25 gift card for their time. Participation is voluntary and they don’t have to answer any question they don’t want to, and they can stop the survey at any time.
If interested in participating or if you have a teen you think might be interested, please reach out to Hannah Gorman at hannah.gorman@doh.wa.gov at the Washington State Department of Health.
Ny’ehe 2023
Native Youth Exploring Higher Education (NY’EHE) is a summer camp for Native American high school students interested in exploring opportunities a college education offers. This year, NY’EHE will be back at the WSU Pullman campus. The camp will consist of exposing students a variety of career fields, promote health and wellness, and provide college preparation.
AGE: Native American High School Students
WHEN: June 26 - 30, 2023
WHERE: WSU Campus, Pullman, Wash.
COST: FREE!
QUESTIONS: Please contact Joelle Edwards, Director for Native American Student Services, at (509) 335-8677 or via email joelle.edwards@wsu.edu. For more information, visit: www.native.wsu.edu/nyehe.
Attention Native Youth and Native Community College Students!
Join Indigenous interested peers, teachers, faculty, communities, and other support systems geared towards Indigenizing education systems. The event will be held on Friday, June 16 at noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday, June 17 at 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the University of Washington-Tacoma. Lodging is available for the first 25 rooms.
Changing Currents Tribal Water Summit
Changing Current Water summits are inter-tribal convenings designed to bring together staff and leadership from Northwest Tribes and Native communities to foster dialogue and collaboration around common water interests and work toward a shared agenda. The summit will be held on June 26 to 30, 2023, in North Bend, Oregon. For information and to register, visit: https://www.changingcurrents.net/summits.
Foster Care Training and Culture Night
Hosted by the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation, this training will be held on June 15, 2023, available both in-person and via Zoom. A meal will be served at 5:30 p.m. and the training/cultural activities will begin at 6 p.m. For more information, please contact Matt Sam-Thornhill at (206) 681-7447 or email fostercare@unitedindians.org.
Muckleshoot Tribal Schools is hiring an Outdoor Curriculum Developer
($88,898-$142,237) DOE
Apply online: https://careers-muckleshootgov.icims.com/jobs/5291/outdoor-learning-coordinator-%26-curriculum-developer-%28%2488%2c898---%24142%2c237%29-doe/job
Health Care Authority is hiring a Medical Assistance Program Specialist 2 (MAPS2/OTA) in the Office of Tribal Affairs
Position closes 6/14/2023 11:59 p.m., Annual Salary $57,324-$77,028
Apply online: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/washington/jobs/4062844/medical-assistance-program-specialist-2-maps2-ota
Congratulations to the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, named a 2023 All-Star!
The Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe was named a 2023 All-Star by the Honoring Nations Board of Governors and the Harvard Kennedy School Project on Indigenous Governance and Development! Read more about this wonderful news:
Project on Indigenous Governance and Development Announces 2023 All-Stars Awards in American Indian Tribal Governance | Ash Center (harvard.edu)
Photo courtesy of Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribal News
It’s Graduation Season!
Did you know? Under RCW 28A.600.500, school districts and public schools in the state of Washington may not prohibit students who are members of a federally recognized tribe from wearing traditional tribal regalia or objects of Native American cultural significance along with or attached to a gown at graduation ceremonies or related school events. School districts and public schools may not require such students to wear a cap if it is incompatible with the regalia or significant object.
Celebrate Pride Month this June
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month is celebrated each year in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. The Stonewall Uprising was considered a turning point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. In major cities nationwide, this “day” soon grew to encompass events all month. We celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and all the liberty the movement has brought to let people live out their authentic lives.
Healthy Native Youth - 2SLGBTQ+
According to We R Native’s 2020 Youth Health Tech Survey, youth indicated the most important topic for them to learn about was identity. Nearly 40% of youth participants identified as Two Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, or Queer+ (2S-LGBTQ+) themselves.
Visit 2SLGBTQ+ Resources: Healthy Native Youth for culturally relevant health resources to support our diverse youth and relatives.
Supporting Native LGBTQIA2S+
Check out Strengthening Families and twospiritresourceguide.pdf (tribalinformationexchange.org). These resources have been designed to help tribal welfare professionals better serve LGBTQIA2S+ youth in the child welfare system.
Juneteenth Celebration
Thursday, June 15, 2023, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Tivoli Foundation, Capital Campus in Olympia, Wash. All are welcome for this in-person or virtual event! Visit www.BuildWa.org for more information.
WA State Department of Health is offering free water (drinking and cooking) testing at child care facilities for copper and lead.
For more information: Lead in Child Care Drinking Water | Washington State Department of Health
Native American Fatherhood and Families Association is hosting bi-monthly webinars
Tune into these bi-monthly webinars hosted by the Native American Fatherhood & Families Association, and discover new methods for strengthening individuals, families, and relationships. For dates and log in information, visit: SERVICES | NAFFA (nativeamericanfathers.org).
June 25th: Treaty Days- PI-UME-SHA for Warm Springs
This is the 54th annual individual and team dance competition! For information, contact Robinson Mitchell (Chair) at (541) 325-2968.
June 27 to 29: Yakima Nation is hosting their 5th Annual Trauma Informed Care Conference
This free event features speakers from near and far, speaking about historical trauma, trauma informed care, and healing and wellness. Register at YNBHS 5th Annual Trauma Informed Care Conference Registration Form (google.com).
August 14 to 19th: Evergreen College is hosting an art workshop in August in Olympia
For information, call (360) 867-6413 or email longhouse@evergreen.edu.
OTR updated the Since Time Immemorial curriculum translated in Spanish!
Check it out on our website: Since Time Immemorial Early Learning Curriculum | Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families
HRSA celebrates the first anniversary of the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
Learn more here: HHS Celebrates National Maternal Mental Health Hotline’s First Anniversary; Introduces Updated Number: 1-833-TLC-MAMA | HHS.gov
Materials available to promote gross motor support, nature play, and sensory needs
DCYF has funding to support children’s social-emotional learning and mental health in your early learning programs. We have a variety of materials we can provide, including books and supplies promoting gross motor support, nature play, sensory needs, etc. These materials are provided through the Tribal Infant Early Childhood Mental Health grant (IECMHC) so there is no charge to you. Eligible programs include all licensed, certified, or certified for payment only tribal child care and early learning programs.
If interested, please access the survey link to order up to 10 of each bundle. Completion of the survey is due by 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2023. If there are more requests than supplies, Charlotte Campbell, QRIS Government and Partnerships Liaison, will be in touch to discuss options. Delivery/pick up options will be arranged at a later date. If you have any questions, please email Charlotte at charlotte.campbell@dcyf.wa.gov.
Walking in Two Worlds: Understanding the Two-Spirit LGBTQ Community
https://youtu.be/sipAw_oMwDc
Two Spirit and Youth Voices
https://vimeo.com/450199694/8dd706071a
Supporting Two-Spiriting and Native LGBTQ Youth
https://youtu.be/2ZS91T-CCEs
Project 562: Changing The Way We See Native America
Written by Kelly Linscott
Recently, I have heard much about Project 562 and Matika Wilbur; so much so, that I was compelled to share information about this person and her work documenting the historic and current lives of Native American Peoples, Project 562. Changing the Way We See Native America is Matika’s fourth project and is a photographic documentary featuring at least one person from each of the 562 currently recognized Tribal Nations in the United States.
Matika is a member of the Swinomish and Tulalip Tribes and is known in her native community as Tsa-Tsiq, which means "She Who Teaches." Matika is a visual storyteller and has been traveling for the past five years working on Project 562 with the goal "to unveil the true essence of contemporary Native issues, the beauty of Native culture and the magnitude of tradition, and to expose her vitality.” http://www.matikawilbur.com/
Matika’s work has been featured in several publications, including the New York Times (Through a Lens, Documenting Indigenous Culture), NPR (Photographer's decade-long, 600,000 mile journey shows Indigenous life in new book : NPR), and CNN (What Native Americans really look like). Recently, KING5 also published an article about Matika and her work: Washington woman takes photos of all federally recognized tribes | king5.com . Project 562 is available on Random House, Amazon-Project 562 and elsewhere. (Note: some links may not be viewable on state computers)
The Brutal Past and Uncertain Future of Native Adoptions
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/16/nyregion/indian-child-welfare-act-supreme-court.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
|
