Message from the Executive Director
By Jeanette Lewis

The changed fiscal reality means that government and community agencies are facing difficult choices. The Ontario Government‘s spring budget projected a $16 billion deficit as revenues have dropped sharply and in many communities, especially where there is dependence on forestry, manufacturing or related industries, layoffs have occurred. Community service agencies, hospitals, educational facilities and child welfare agencies will need to carefully manage expenditures while continuing to provide required services.

Children‘s Aid Societies (CASs) have over 100 years of experience protecting children and supporting families. Child protection services are required in every community in Ontario. CASs are strong, responsive, established, community-based organizations that are part of a team of community responses to societal issues. Over the last several months, CASs have stayed focused on the needs of children despite the pressure to reduce services in order to manage costs.

Financial constraints can be seen as opportunities for positive change but must not threaten the safety net for children. Child welfare is and has to be responsive to the needs of all children at risk. There cannot be waiting lists. CASs are the only community-based organizations in Ontario that have the legislated mandate to investigate and assess child abuse and neglect.

Over the last 10 years, all community services have experienced sweeping changes and child welfare has been part of these radical shifts. Ontario‘s Children‘s Aid Societies have demonstrated the capacity to transform service delivery while keeping the primary focus on the best interests of the child. There has been success in implementing strength-based practices, participating in community capacity building, and developing alternative dispute resolution as an option for settling family issues without costly court involvement. Understanding that change is required, child welfare agencies have demonstrated a level of creativity in organizational responsiveness to the needs of children and families within a changing environment and under challenging circumstances.

Now is a time for government, agencies, stakeholders and communities to do everything possible to ensure Ontario acts in the best interests of children. This edition of the Journal presents articles on becoming dynamic facilitators of change, the power of the frontline child protection worker and research, programs and services for children and youth in care.

Jeanette Lewis
Executive Director

Next article: Becoming Dynamic Facilitators of Change: Acting to Advance the Well-Being of Ontario's Children and Youth