Columbus, Ohio – In a move to address the workforce crisis in children services, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Kara B. Wente, Director of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY), announced a $2 million expansion of the Ohio Child Protective Services Fellowship Program. The initiative aims to attract college students majoring in human services fields, providing hands-on training and experience at county public children services agencies (PCSAs) while addressing the critical shortage of caseworkers.
Addressing a Growing Workforce Crisis
Ohio’s children services system is grappling with a severe workforce shortage. At the start of 2023, 20% of caseworker positions were unfilled, and an additional 20% of those remaining resigned by the year’s end. In 21 counties, turnover rates soared above 40%, leaving nearly half of all caseworkers statewide with less than two years of experience. These trends not only burden the system but also directly impact vulnerable children, as research indicates that high turnover prolongs children’s time in foster care.
Governor DeWine emphasized the significance of stabilizing the workforce:
“Expanding this program not only provides great learning and working experience for students who are striving to make a positive difference in our communities, it also ensures that our most vulnerable children and families continue to receive the care and stability they need during a critical time in their lives.”
Hands-On Training for Future Caseworkers
The fellowship program, initially launched by Wood County Job and Family Services in 2022, partners with colleges and universities to recruit students entering their junior year. During their senior year, fellows work part-time at PCSAs, earning $15 per hour for up to 26 hours per week. This allows them to gain practical experience in casework while managing their academic responsibilities.
Fellows engage in a variety of duties, including:
- Transporting clients
- Attending home visits and court hearings
- Documenting cases
- Making follow-up calls
Retention incentives and mentorship opportunities further support students, preparing them for full-time caseworker roles post-graduation.
“These are incredibly important jobs that make a difference. Every day, children services professionals work to help keep vulnerable children safe,” said Director Wente. “We believe the expansion of the Ohio Child Protective Services Fellowship Program will help us energize a new generation of college graduates to enter this critically needed and highly rewarding field.”
Expanding Opportunities Across Ohio
DCY’s $2 million investment will nearly double the number of participating counties, growing the program from 19 to 35 counties across northwest, southwest, and southeast Ohio. The funding will support 75 part-time fellowship positions, with the ultimate goal of securing permanent positions for participants at PCSAs or other local health and human services agencies.
Students pursuing degrees in psychology, family science, sociology, or related human services fields can apply for the program, provided they can commute to a county PCSA with available fellowship positions.
To learn more or apply, students can visit DCY’s program webpage:
ChildrenAndYouth.Ohio.gov/Fellowship
Complementary Workforce Initiatives
In addition to the fellowship program, Ohio continues to bolster its children services workforce through the University Partnership Program (UPP). UPP incentivizes graduates with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work to pursue careers in children services. Studies show that UPP participants are more likely to remain in their positions and report higher job satisfaction compared to their peers.
UPP is part of the Ohio Child Welfare Training Program (OCWTP). Interested graduates can learn more at:
ohiocaps.org/ocwtp/upp
A Path Toward a Stronger Workforce and Better Outcomes
Through these initiatives, Ohio aims to reverse alarming trends in workforce shortages and turnover rates while improving outcomes for vulnerable children and families. The fellowship program offers students a pathway to meaningful careers while ensuring that the state’s children services agencies are equipped with skilled and committed professionals.
Governor DeWine summarized the program’s importance:
“This investment not only strengthens our commitment to delivering for Ohio’s children and families but also provides students with valuable experiences that will shape their futures and the future of our communities.”
With the expansion of the Ohio Child Protective Services Fellowship Program, the state is taking significant steps toward ensuring that its most vulnerable citizens receive the care and stability they need.
