Editor’s note: the message below is from Secretary Jilma Meneses about the Combined Fund Drive.
Dear Colleagues:
We have the privilege of strengthening the health and vitality of Washingtonians by connecting them with resources and providing access to critical services. We choose this work because we want to make a difference in people’s lives. Many of you also donate your time and hard-earned money to organizations throughout Washington and to the Combined Fund Drive.
Learn more and donate.
Last year, you donated more than $453,000 in cash and other donations to 1,105 different charities through the CFD alone and DSHS staff recorded 1,081 hours of volunteer service. This is more than any other large state agency and is something to take tremendous pride in. Today, I ask you to consider continuing that generous support.
The 2024 Combined Fund Drive has officially begun and runs through mid-December. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the CFD. The theme is “Explore: 40 Stories, 40 Years.” You will more in the coming weeks. I hope you will consider contributing in the same spirit as you have for so many years.
Thank you for your participation in the CFD, and above all, for your tremendous servant leadership that impacts so many Washingtonians every day.
With gratitude,
Jilma
TA Heartfelt Reflection on the 2024 Washington APS All-Staff Conference
he 2024 Washington Adult Protective Services All-Staff Conference was held at the Muckleshoot Event Center September 10 and 11. This event brought together dedicated APS professionals committed to serving vulnerable adults across Washington State. The gathering was more than just an event; it was a convergence of energy, collaboration, and shared learning experiences that left an indelible mark on all attendees.
Day 1: Unveiling Stories of Loneliness and Heroism
The conference began with an enlightening keynote presented by Joseph Applebaum (Co-founder, The Clowder Group) who showcased a film, All The Lonely People and debuted Heroes of Adult Protection (HOAP) Project, both produced by The Clowder Group.
All The Lonely People delves into the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds as they navigate and overcome social isolation and loneliness. Their stories resonated deeply, offering valuable insights into challenges that many people face daily. The documentary didn’t just highlight problems; it provided actionable ways for professionals—and communities at large—to make meaningful connections and foster inclusivity.
Heroes of Adult Protection (HOAP) Project is a groundbreaking docuseries aimed at shedding light on adult abuse stories, amplifying awareness and driving positive change. The preview was both moving and motivating, reminding everyone of the profound impact their work has on the lives of those we are here to serve and protect.
Kathy Morgan Director WA State Adult Protective Services
Left to right: The Clowder Group, Vicki Parker and Joseph Applebaum, and Kathy Morgan, APS Director
Day 2: Navigating Dementia with Compassion and Understanding
The second day was impactful featuring speaker Tam Cummings PhD who presented on 9 Common Dementias: Communicating and Understanding Individuals with Dementia.
She demystified the complexities of dementia by breaking down the nine most common types, providing attendees with the knowledge to better identify and understand the conditions affecting many adults in their care. More importantly, she equipped staff with communication strategies to engage compassionately and effectively with individuals experiencing dementia.
Her insights emphasized the importance of seeing the person first, beyond the diagnosis. By adopting her approaches, professionals can enhance their interactions, ensuring that they honor the dignity and individuality of each person they support.
Additional Highlights and Collaborative Efforts
Beyond the keynotes, the conference offered a wealth of sessions that enriched professional practice. Attendees engaged in a panel discussion with a team of experts from the Federal Trade Commission, Department of Financial Institutions, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Washington Secretary of State, and Seattle Police Department addressing financial fraud. Their insights on preventing and addressing financial exploitation and scams were invaluable.
Participants also explored multiple workshop offerings that included supports for victims of crime, resources available to veteran’s, collaboration with law enforcement and prosecutors and our Office of Attorney General on building a strong record and testimony preparation.
Tam Cummings
Looking Ahead: The 2025 NAPSA Conference in Bellevue
As the momentum from this year’s conference carries forward, there is another exciting opportunity on the horizon. The 2025 National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) Conference will be held next year in Bellevue, WA September 8 – 11, 2025. This event will bring together APS professionals from across the nation to share best practices, innovative strategies, and the latest research in adult protection. Due to this commitment, we will not host an APS statewide conference next year. More information to come in the following months!
In addition to the NAPSA Conference, it was announced starting in 2025 all APS staff statewide will receive a membership to the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) allowing access to networking opportunities, conference exclusive content, access to a research library, discounted subscriptions, and more. As the new year approaches membership information will be shared.
Closing Thoughts
The conference was more than a series of presentations; it was a reaffirmation of a collective mission. The stories shared, the knowledge gained, and the connections made will undoubtedly strengthen efforts statewide.
I’d like to extend my deepest appreciation to all who participated, presented, and organized this remarkable event. By carrying the momentum forward and applying what was learned, will make a tangible difference in the lives of adults across Washington.
Please refer to the APS 2024 Conference SharePoint site to view presenter bios, presentations, photos, and videos.
Celebrating American Indian & Alaskan Native Heritage
Washington’s Adult Protective Services is honored to recognize and celebrate American Indian and Alaskan Native Heritage Month in November. This time acknowledges the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of American Indian and Alaskan Native individuals in the state and across the nation.
Washington is home to 29 federally recognized tribes, each with unique traditions and stories that have profoundly influenced society. The resilience, wisdom, and cultural richness of American Indian and Alaskan Native communities continue to inspire everyone. Their unique contributions span art, science, leadership, and land stewardship, enriching the tapestry of shared heritage and inspiring us all.
In our work at APS, we are deeply committed to supporting and protecting vulnerable adults, including those within American Indian and Alaskan Native communities. It is our commitment to understand the paramount importance of culturally sensitive approaches when providing services. By respecting and honoring each individual’s cultural values and traditions, the agency can better serve and ensure needed supports are received while preserving their dignity and heritage.
This time serves as a reminder of the importance of building strong relationships with tribal communities. APS collaborates with tribes to ensure our investigations align with tribal member interests, including establishing memorandums of understanding. Collaboration and open dialogue are essential in addressing the unique challenges faced by American Indian and Alaskan Native individuals, especially elders who may be at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Paula Hughes, M.Ed., CDE Deputy Director WA State Adult Protective Services
By working together, effective strategies can be developed to promote well-being and safeguard the rights of every person served.
We are dedicated to ongoing education and training to enhance cultural competency. By incorporating traditional practices and values into service models, we strive to provide services that are both effective and respectful.
Everyone is encouraged to take this opportunity to learn more about the histories and contributions of American Indian and Alaskan Native people. Attending local events, visiting cultural centers, or engaging in conversations can deepen understanding and foster a more inclusive and respectful society through education and awareness.
Adult Protective Services expresses its deepest gratitude to the American Indian and Alaskan Native individuals who have contributed to its programs and initiatives. Their insights and guidance are invaluable, and the agency is committed to continuing collaborative work to support vulnerable adults in the communities.
Let the legacy of American Indian and Alaskan Native communities be honored not just this season but throughout the year. Their stories are an integral part of the nation’s fabric, and it is a shared responsibility to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights protected.
Together, we can build a community where every individual is valued and respected.
Headquarters Spotlight APS Intake Supervisor
Rachel Webb was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest and has lived in Washington her entire life. She always knew she wanted a career helping others. Initially, she went to college to pursue a degree in nursing. However, as the saying goes, “when you’re busy making plans, life happens.” During college, she had to change her career plans to accommodate motherhood. Life brought her a son who, from a very young age, has severe autism. It was then that Rachel found her true calling: to be a voice and advocate for those who do not have the ability to speak for themselves. She never set out to become this person, but as Bob Ross would say, it was a “happy accident.”
After working in various non-profits with at-risk youth and families, Rachel was fortunate to be hired by Adult Protective Services (APS) for her first state job. Initially, she did not know what APS was, but she quickly fell in love with the mission and the freedom to protect vulnerable adults. The work is meaningful to her because, one day, her son will be considered a vulnerable adult. She
finds peace of mind knowing that APS will be there to protect her son if she is not able to.
Every day, Rachel comes to work and treats every intake, investigation, and vulnerable adult the way she would want her son to be treated. She wholeheartedly believes in the APS mission and has seen firsthand the agency’s ability to protect vulnerable adults. She stays with APS because of this belief and enjoys having a positive impact on the current and future generations of APS staff.
In her free time, Rachel can usually be found at the beach, on a road trip, baking, or spending time with her husband, two boys, and her dog.
Rachel Webb APS Intake Supervisor WA State
Sunflowers at Dusk Spokane, WA
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Recognizing Excellence in Our Workforce
Jenny Eslinger started her career in public service 16 years ago and always had a passion for working with vulnerable populations. She has proven to be an invaluable investigator and is a strong protector and advocate of our vulnerable adult population. She possesses a great sense of humor that makes those around her feel comfortable and at ease. Working at APS, Jenny values meeting a wide array of people and listening to their stories to gain an understanding of their current situation and needs. She finds meaning in the Maya Angelou quote, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better”. She believes that we are all doing the best that we can at any given moment, and that there will be a time when we all need a little extra support and encouragement.
Jenny’s maternal grandparents are her biggest inspiration who met while both were admitted to the University of Washington Medical Center. Her grandmother was recovering from a series of surgeries that resulted in partial quadriplegia to remove spinal tumors. Her grandfather was recovering from a rockclimbing fall, which caused a spinal cord injury that resulted in paraplegia. Despite their physical limitations and ongoing medical issues, they lived their lives to the fullest. When not at work, you can find Jenny with her husband, Taylor, their four kids, two cats, and two dogs. Jenny is happiest when spending time with family and friends, listening to live music (preferably at an outdoor music festival), or curled up with a book.
Anne Williams is known for her calm demeanor and efficiency. In 2018, she transferred from DCYF where she worked in case management. She takes everything in stride and always available to assist others or take on extra work to help the team. She did a phenomenal job when she assisted with closing 212 King County cases from April - July
2024, averaging 53 cases a month! She resides in Ferndale with her partner, Robbie, and their fluffy dog Riley. She has five adult children (two sets of twins) and four grandchildren with one more on the way. She is a runner and has participated in numerous events to include sprint triathlons, half marathons, century rides, and trail runs. Anne is an avid reader. Two of her favorite authors are David Baldacci and Harlan Coben.
Aderonke Shaba has proven herself to be a vital asset to Region 3. As soon as an intake is received, she immediately starts working the case by gaining an understanding of the situation before going into the field. She adheres to policies ensuring she does her part to assist in meeting APS strategic measures. In the recent 2024 Region 3 Quality Assurance review, out of her four cases pulled for review, there were zero deficiencies identified. She is innovative and creative in finding workable solutions to challenges in the workplace. Aderonke is driven to support our vulnerable adult population, teammates and
management. For example, she developed a plan to lead and support a group of investigators to close more cases where she created specific and measurable goals and frequently checked in with each investigator. The outcome was successful in meeting their goal of cases closed and investigators gained efficient caseload strategies and confidence. She provided high motivation, consistent support and feedback, and shared helpful strategies.
Aderonke was born in the United States and was raised in her hometown in Nigeria. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her children and traveling to many countries in Africa and Europe, as well as many US states. Aderonke’s bright and positive energy is infectious and can be felt across the region. Her upbeat, positive attitude appears effortless, and her consistent message is that she is grateful to have an amazing job she loves and can make a difference.
Anne Williams APS Investigator Region 2, Bellingham
Jenny Eslinger APS Investigator Region 1, Ellensburg
Aderonke Shaba APS Investigator Region 3, Tumwater
I am at Walgreens impatiently waiting to have my passport photo taken. Dreading it for so many reasons, including that it is sure to be an awful photo that I will then be stuck with for years to come! I know that this 10-minute errand can easily take up to an hour, if I get it done at all today. The smiling folks who work here are terribly slow and have a knack for disappearing when a customer line starts to form in the often-deserted store. I am in a sour mood already when I spy the employee in an aisle chatting with another customer. Chatting! I feel myself getting hot (can anyone relate?). Yes, to expeditious customer service when others are waiting. No, to casually chatting with one customer when others are waiting.
I breathe deeply and remind myself that I truly do not know all the circumstances, neither can I hear what they are talking about, so I should practice patience. Fourteen minutes later (but who was counting???) the employee saunters over with a smile and an immediate apology, “I am so sorry for the wait. That lady is a regular and has had such a hard week. Her longtime husband died suddenly while her daughter was hospitalized with a rare infection. I just wanted to make sure that she is doing ok.” My heart crumbles with empathy and sympathy as I imagine being the one who needs that human connection during my pain. I also find myself feeling guilty for my annoyance, and relieved that I did not interrupt or otherwise signal that I wanted attention. Lessons are everywhere – I just need to remain open to learning and growing!
The above is a real experience that my husband had in our local Walgreens. He shared with me the value he found in selftalk. He was repeating to himself, “Be patient, you don’t know the full story. Be patient, you don’t know the full story.” He grounded himself in the present and focused on not jumping to a conclusion based on perception, rather than reality. I can share countless stories from my years in state service where I have assisted in matters where one of us goes all the way to action without knowing the full story. The distress that can be self-inflicted when we do not pause to ask – What if there is more than I know at this moment? What if there is more than meets the eye? What if I
chose to ask or learn more before reacting? What if I could fuel a more positive outcome by choosing to pause?
Before we are investigators, supervisors, program managers, administrators, or directors…we are humans, having a human experience. One full of joy, frustration, satisfaction, disappointment, love, dislike… the full gamut of emotions! I support acknowledging what we feel, but exercising the ability to ask:
What if there is more to the story?
APS Supervisor Academy
submitted by Ruiqin Miao, APS Training Unit Manager
After more than a year of collaboration between APS regional supervisors, HQ program and training managers, and the UW Alliance, we are excited to share that APS Supervisor Academy is currently in development! Stay tuned for details on the official launch.
Background
APS offered its first supervisor training in 2018. All supervisors at the time completed the course in 2018 and 2019. However, the training was paused during the pandemic. With the rapid growth of APS, the new policies and procedures of adult protective services in Washington State as well as the release of federal regulations, APS partnered with the UW Alliance to develop a new supervisor training. The goal was to create a more comprehensive and interactive course that focuses on the essential aspects of supervision in APS.
What to Expect?
Here’s what supervisors can look forward to:
• Interactive and immersive learning: The training covers essential knowledge and hands-on skills for supervision in APS. Participants will be engaged in discussions, group activities and problemsolving scenarios on a variety of topics.
• Clear learning objectives: Each session has specific learning objectives to set clear expectations and ensure impactful learning.
• Comprehensive content: The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including general leadership and supervision knowledge, as well as hands-on skills tailored to the work of APS supervisors.
• Alignment with cutting-edge skills: The training aligns with the latest developments in leadership and management theories, as well as the evolving field of adult protective services.
This new Supervisor Academy will be a required training for all APS current and new supervisors. After completing the course, participants are expected to acquire solid knowledge and skills to lead their team with confidence and competence. They will also gain a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities, enhancing their ability to support, coach and guide their staff.
Celebrating in the Midst of Loss
Submitted by Rebeca Estrada, PhD, Region 2 CIESM Program Manager
It may be hard to believe, but the holiday season is fast approaching. For some people, the holidays are a time of excitement and cheer, however, others find it to be a challenging time of the year for a variety of reasons. Working in social services, having a history of trauma, struggling with grief and loss, or having mental health challenges can make the holiday season a difficult time to navigate.
Working as a helper can fill one’s life with meaning and purpose, but it can also be the catalyst for experiencing big emotions because of consistent exposure to human suffering. During the holidays, traditions that once filled a person with joy could become colored with sadness, guilt or anger. Many people report feeling guilty for having so much when their clients have so little. Others express feelings of anger at the system, the client’s caregivers or families, or even their own family and friends for not expressing gratitude for their abundance.
For those with a history of trauma, whether that trauma comes from childhood, work, the military, or events in adulthood, the holidays
can bring a myriad of triggers. Changes in the weather, décor in the home and stores, smells, traditions, media and many other things can send the brain into protection mode. The brain is wired for survival, so these triggers can induce fight or flight mode. One might notice increased hypervigilance, irritability, isolation, and changes in eating and sleeping patterns.
When one is grieving, this time of year can be a stark reminder of their loss, and they might find it hard to enjoy the holidays without their loved one. Those struggling with mental health challenges may notice a low mood which can result from depression, seasonal affective disorder, increased exposure to challenging relationships, loneliness, or fatigue. Anxiety can become exacerbated by increased expectations for oneself and one’s relationships, financial challenges, an increase of busyness, anticipating upcoming events, or even increased social interactions at holiday events. Those with executive functioning challenges can experience stress and overwhelm from poor planning and budgeting, overscheduling and losing routines and habits that once created stability and predictability.
For those who find this a difficult time of year, there are some things that might help decrease the stress of the holidays. Below are some strategies that may be useful.
Set aside some low-stimulation time:
• Step into a quiet space and take a few deep breaths.
• Spend time doing a cozy activity in comfortable clothes.
• Give yourself time before bed to wind down.
• Plan a pleasant activity to do at home alone or with few people.
Simplify your celebrations:
• Only decorate with items that are meaningful.
• Bring the same dish to multiple events, make the item in a batch and freeze it.
• Make service part of your holiday celebration.
• If hosting a meal, make it potluck style so everyone contributes.
• Focus on experiences over gift giving.
• Bring gift cards with a treat to holiday gift exchanges.
Prioritize physical health and routines:
• Set your limits and boundaries with your time.
• Balance out your holiday diet with nutritional foods.
• Prioritize sleep and maintain a routine.
• Incorporate movement into daily activities.
• Feel your feelings and practice self-compassion.
If you would like additional information or resources, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your regional Critical Incident and Employee Stress Management Program Manager (CIESM).
REGIONAL SUCCESS STORIES
A little compassion and professionalism can go a long way in transforming the lives of Washington’s vulnerable adults
Region 1
APS received a self-neglect report from a community member who observed a client walking to a grocery store wearing heavy clothing in temperatures in the upper 90s. The community member provided the client a ride to the store and back to their home. They called APS and law enforcement to share their concerns and the conditions of the home.
The investigator learned that emergency medical services (EMS) went to the client’s home following the community member’s report but was unable to contact the client and left without seeing him. The investigator used the video feature of her phone to connect with a supervisor as the home’s entry was blocked which led to another makeshift door into the house. After knocking and calling out to the client, the investigator could barely hear the client giving permission to open the door. Upon entry, the investigator found the client weak, emaciated and confused wearing heavy clothing and complaining of being cold
when it was extremely hot. The house had no running water or working electrical outlets for fans. The investigator remained with the client while the supervisor called EMS, who then transported the client to the hospital for evaluation and medical treatment. Had it not been for our investigator’s persistence to see the client, good judgment and observation skills, the outcome for this alleged victim might have ended poorly. The client was temporarily discharged to a long-term care facility while awaiting the arrival of family from Mississippi with plans to permanently move in with them.
Region 2
APS received a report with allegations of self-neglect regarding a client experiencing delusions, hallucinations, and called emergency services approximately 89 times in a span of 6 months. The client was reliant on their adult son who lived next door. After some investigation, it was determined that a separate investigation needed to be opened for neglect due to the son removing the client twice from different skilled nursing facilities
against medical advice and leaving the client at home to care for themselves without any caregiving services in place. An allegation of financial exploitation was also added due to suspicious account activity.
The investigator staffed the case with the supervisor, program manager, and AAG and determined that a guardianship and conservatorship were necessary to protect the client. The client obtained an attorney to contest the petition, but after multiple court hearings the court ruled in granting the guardianship and conservatorship. A professional guardian was put in place and the client obtained needed care and services. An initial substantiated finding was upheld at IRT regarding the allegations against the son. Through the diligent and thorough investigative efforts of the investigator that a positive outcome was realized for the client.
Region 3
APS received multiple reports from 2019 to 2024 concerning the care of a certified
nursing assistant provided in multiple DSHS licensed facilities. The reported concerns include multiple allegations. As the individual gained employment at a facility and allegations were reported, the individual would quit or was terminated and eventually employed at another facility. APS has been able to substantiate on a couple of cases with others pending.
The investigators have worked hard ensuring the cases are prioritized and thoroughly investigated. They collaborated closely with Residential Care Services, Department of Health, law enforcement and with the individual facilities in efforts to stop future employment, revoke the certified nursing assistant certification, pursue criminal charges and ensure resident safety.
Yakima River near Ellensburg, WA
Getting to Know One Another
Understanding how our unique experiences contribute to a stronger and more
diverse workforce
Janice VanFrederic, brings a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to making a difference in her new role as Adult Protective Services (APS) Program Integrity Unit Manager since September. Residing in Washougal, Washington, with her wife Marisa and their 11-year-old daughter Jalyn, Janice’s journey to APS is as inspiring as it is impactful.
A Journey of Advocacy and Growth
Janice’s career path has always been centered around helping others. Starting at the Johnson County Juvenile Justice Center in Warrensburg, Missouri—home of the Mules—she worked in multiple programs, including detention and community services. She was also the first employee of the IMPACT program, partnering with youth and their families to prevent recidivism. Her passion for mentoring led her to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks in Springfield, Missouri. “That’s where I learned the magic of the power of mentoring. Do yourself a favor and grab a mentor for work, life, or both,” she advises.
Before joining APS, Janice worked at Share, a nonprofit organization in Washington that provides shelter, permanent housing, and outreach services. She directed the Women’s Housing and Transition Shelter—the first of its kind in Clark County—aimed at securing a safe environment for individuals identifying as female and eliminating barriers that prevented them from accessing shelter.
Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Challenges
Janice’s move from Missouri to Washington was driven by a desire for a more inclusive environment for her family. “Truth is, Marisa and I wanted to start a family, and Missouri state laws at that time did not create an inviting or safe platform for members of the LGBTQ+ community,” she shares. The decision to relocate while seven months pregnant was challenging, but Washington offered the acceptance they sought. “I will never forget the day I pulled up to the Vancouver Office and the Pride Flag was flying outside the building along with the Washington State Flag. That day I knew we were home.”
Janice VanFrederic Program Integrity Unit Manager APS Headquarters
Janice and (dog) River
She acknowledges personal struggles with self-doubt and the pressure of comparison. “I have dealt with imposter syndrome, compared my skills to others, realizing I didn’t have all the skills,” Janice reflects. Her turning point came with the realization that individuality is a strength. She says, “stop comparing yourself to your peers and put that energy into yourself.”
Inspiring Change at APS
In her new role, Janice is enthusiastic about fostering improvement within APS. “With Quality Improvement moving under APS, we have a dedicated team that will use data to identify areas of, you guessed it, IMPROVEMENT,” she explains. She emphasizes the importance of each team member’s voice in this process: “The exciting news is YOU get a voice; you can be an agent of change.”
Janice believes in the profound impact APS workers have on the lives of vulnerable adults. Sharing a memorable experience, she says, “I will never forget taking the time to look at a quilt collection at one of my first in-field visits. The lady I met that day wasn’t being abused or in danger, but she was very lonely. Our conversation mattered to her.”
Life Beyond Work
Outside of her professional life, Janice enjoys golf, running, softball, and watching “The Golden Girls.” An avid traveler, her family is excited about their upcoming first trip to Disney World in October. Earlier this year, they explored Saint Kitts, the Virgin Islands, and the Bahamas, always seeking out ziplining adventures. Janice also volunteers as a softball coach and League Safety Officer for East County Little League.
Her pets—two Goldendoodles, River and Clara, and a 14-year-old poodle mix named Murphy— are cherished members of the family. During the summer, they enjoy hiking and paddleboarding, transitioning to intense board game nights in the winter with favorites like Dominion, Ticket to Ride, and Catan.
A Message of Encouragement
Janice’s journey is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of embracing one’s true self. She leaves her colleagues with inspiring words: “Our circumstances aren’t the reasons you can’t succeed; they are the reality in which you must succeed.” She adds, “When you are out knocking on doors, know what you say and how you say it could change someone’s life forever.”
Janice VanFrederic embodies the spirit of inclusivity and dedication at APS, continually striving to make a positive impact on both her team and the community they serve.
Janice and (wife) Marisa
(daughter) Jalyn’s 5th grade graduation
Riverfront Park
Spokane, WA
UPDATES & INFORMATION
TIVA2 Releases
submitted by Dave Beacham, APS Operations Research Specialist
APS is always working to improve TIVA2 to easily navigate, review, and accurately capture the work we do. TIVA2 releases occur quarterly with new features available following the Q3 release in October 2024.
• Case notes include the ability to upload and associate evidence with the case note.
• Case notes will automatically generate in TIVA2 when the following are completed:
o Safety screening
o Risk screening
o Referrals from intake
o Referrals from investigation, including outcome reports
o Requests for information
• Ability to create intakes from a participant’s person management page and associate the participant as the AV or AP.
• Linking a participant at intake to enter the demographic for that participant.
• Demographics updated on a participant at intake update person management when linked to a person management page.
• Referrals can be made to Residential Care Services (RCS) from intake or investigation via a checkbox.
• RCS referrals to APS will be directed to the APS queue.
• APS referrals made to RCS will go directly to the RCS queue.
• Demographics auto-fill when an intake is created from an RCS referral.
• Search results display the investigation, and then the related intakes under each investigation, then screen out intakes.
• Drop down on rotation edit allows for capturing the reason for rotation changes.
• Rotation change history retained in TIVA2.
If you have TIVA2 suggestions for improvements, changes, or additions, please send them to your region’s TIVA2 point of contact.
Policy Community of Practice
submitted by Rebecca Mead, Interim APS Office Chief, Training, Policy and Intake Unit
Thank you to staff who attended the recent All Staff Meetings. Our presentation focused on progress and outcomes of the Policy Workshop held in January 2023. Participants suggested recommendations that helped inform recent and future policy updates, enhancements, and learning opportunities. A key goal of the workshop was to identify ways to increase collaboration and communication
around policy development. Based on the recommendations from the workshop, we developed and enhanced opportunities for staff to learn and engage with policy.
We began our second Policy Community of Practice (COP) cohort in July. The Community of Practice was a recommendation from the workshop that was inspired by staff interest in understanding policy. COP participants are given opportunities to learn about the process for creating and implementing policies in APS. We’d love to spotlight our new cohort participants, a big welcome to: Lacy Valencia, Kendel VanHoomissen, Zara Roy, Monika Balmer, Monica Cole, Rachel Webb, Shawna Harper, Tami Ladoux, Samuel Chapman, Juan Vasquez, Oliver Weishaar, Amanda Green, Stephanie Canterbury and Jennifer Crawford. This group has a strong passion for the work of
APS and a common goal to learn about policy. Juan Vasquez says the COP is “a valuable opportunity to deepen my understanding of the policies that underpin our mission”. This sentiment is shared by Kendel VanHoomissen who hopes “to use this opportunity to learn, grow, and be a part of positive and impactful changes with and for my peers as well as the populations we serve”. This group is comprised of a variety of field staff who will serve a oneyear term. Amanda Green shared “By working with a diverse group of individuals, I would look to grow through collaborative efforts and shared knowledge”. We are excited to bring together these diverse voices and ideas. We appreciate all the enthusiasm and are looking forward to collaborating.
Coffee Break with Kathy
Grab a cup of coffee and call-in to chat with APS Director Kathy Morgan!
Please join this casual quarterly event to stay informed of APS Division’s current events and the opportunity to ask your questions. Quarterly Staff Updates: 2024 Dates
