APS Magazine Spring (Apr/May/Jun) 2024

CELEBRATING OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS & LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

As the fresh blossoms of spring signal new beginnings, we are reminded of our commitment to serve with compassion and respect. Your dedication to supporting vulnerable individuals is inspirational and essential to the well-being of our communities.

Reflecting on our collective accomplishments in 2023 fills me with pride. APS has made great strides in enhancing our technology systems and training programs, updating, and streamlining policies to align with personcentered language and creating program efficiencies to support staff and those we serve. Grant funding has facilitated the exploration of pioneering service models, opportunities for advancing the program, and enhancing staff training.

A standout achievement has been the development and implementation of a comprehensive training program of forensic interviewing. This initiative provides APS staff the skills necessary to interview and better serve and empower individuals.

Through workshops, we’ve refined our policies, ensuring they align with the best practices in adult protection. The implementation of communities of practice as part of our workforce development strategy has set the stage for the growth of future leaders, and our focus on staff well-being has fostered a supportive work environment that prioritizes mental health.

With the onset of 2024, we are embarking on initiatives to strengthen our ability in providing protective services to individuals in need. Our focus will be on enhancing training programs and workforce stabilization.

These strategic objectives aim to recruit, train, and retain employees to enrich our workforce, equipping staff with the fundamental skills and knowledge for successful protective outcomes within the communities we serve.

Another significant aim is to broaden our initiatives related to diversity and inclusion, to better represent the multifaceted nature of the populations we assist. This commitment extends beyond goals; it embodies our promise to reflect the diversity of the individuals and communities we are dedicated to serving.

Our APS program is a beacon of progressive policy and excellence, recognized nationally. This is a direct reflection of your diligent work—an accomplishment for which we all can hold a shared sense of pride.

I am not only merely proud of what we have already accomplished; I am motivated by our established objectives to continuously improve our services. Our journey involves ongoing innovation and commitment to the individuals we support, ensuring their safety, dignity, and quality of life.

As we embrace the season of renewal, let us strengthen our commitment to championing change and drawing inspiration from our mission to transforming lives through innovative services that promote choice, independence, and safety.

Thank you for your exceptional service and the heartfelt work you do every day. Here’s to a year of continued growth, remarkable achievements, and steadfast dedication to the individuals who rely on us.

Click the links below to read more about our 2023 accomplishments and goals set for 2024.

From Tradition to Innovation

Arab Americans Shaping Our Society

As we welcome the vibrant spring season, we also embrace a period of cultural celebration and recognition. April marks Arab American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to acknowledging the rich history, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Arab Americans. This season offers us a unique opportunity to reflect on the invaluable impact that individuals from this community have had across various sectors, including social services, which is at the heart of our work.

One exemplary figure whose work resonates deeply with our mission is Dr. Maha Hilal, an unwavering advocate for human rights and social justice. Dr. Hilal, with her roots tracing back to the Arab American community, has tirelessly worked to address issues of institutionalized discrimination and has been at the forefront of efforts to challenge and dismantle unjust systems. Her advocacy, particularly in mental health support for marginalized communities, underscores the critical intersection of social work and human rights activism. Dr. Hilal’s contributions are a powerful reminder of one individual’s impact in driving social change and fostering a more equitable society.

In the realm of science and technology, we celebrate the achievements of Dr. Farouk El-Baz, a scientist of Egyptian descent who made monumental contributions to the Apollo missions. His pioneering work in using satellite imagery to identify potential landing sites has been pivotal in space exploration and has had far-reaching implications for environmental and geological research. Dr. El-Baz’s innovative approach to science and his commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of humanity echoes the values we hold dear in our pursuit of social betterment and community service.

Another remarkable individual whose story embodies the spirit of perseverance and contribution is Rami Nashashibi, a community organizer and the founder of the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN) in Chicago. Through his work, Nashashibi has demonstrated the profound impact of grassroots activism, bridging religious, racial, and societal divides to foster environments of understanding and support. His initiatives, focusing on health, wellness, and social enterprise, have revitalized communities and provided a holistic, inclusive social work model.

As we celebrate Arab American Heritage Month, let us draw inspiration from these individuals and countless others who have contributed meaningfully to our society. Their achievements are a testament to the power of diversity, community importance, and dedicated service’s impact. This month, I encourage you to engage with and learn more about the Arab American experience, whether through attending cultural events, participating in educational workshops, or simply initiating conversations with colleagues and community members.

In recognizing and honoring the contributions of Arab Americans, we reaffirm our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within our organization and the communities we serve. Let us use this time to reflect on our practices, strive for greater understanding and empathy, and continue to work towards a society where every individual’s heritage is celebrated as part of our collective strength.

Paula Hughes, M.Ed., CDE Deputy Director WA State Adult Protective Services

Sajan Karki Operations & Data Specialist, WA State Adult Protective Services

Headquarters Spotlight Operations & Data Specialist

Sajan comes to us from the Washington State Health Care Authority Medicaid Rates and Finance Unit where he provided data and operations support to biennium per capita Medicaid forecast development work and analyzed managed care data for payment reimbursement. Prior to joining the state service, he served in the US Army as a healthcare operations specialist for 6 years where he closely worked with behavioral health professionals (PsyD, AR-NP, LCSW) to manage and provide care to active-duty soldiers. Upon transitioning out of the Army, Sajan was invited to do a fellowship with the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Region Finance Team where he gained experience in building financial models for cloud service launch. He later transitioned to a full time position with AWS Business Development Team in a data analyst role.

He moved to the United States 16 years ago from the Himalayan country of Nepal to pursue higher education, and earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration accounting from University of Texas at Arlington. He is currently pursuing a master’s in business analytics (MSBA) at University of Washington at Tacoma.

Sajan is passionate about working with data to solve complex business problems. His primary objective is to contribute meaningfully to the community, providing support and subject matter expertise to the Adult Protective Services Division to support strategic data driven decisionmaking. His focus spans data reporting and analysis, application enhancements, project and system oversight, and IT-APS business collaboration.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Recognizing Excellence in Our Workforce

Region 1 was fortunate when Andrew Vandivier opted to make a career change by joining Region 1 in June 2022, as an APS investigator in the Spokane Office. Andrew is an outstanding individual with a positive impact that is felt in the lives of clients and Region 1 colleagues. He is dedicated to public service and protecting vulnerable adults.

Andrew is always the first to respond, offer, or volunteer when something is needed. He is dependable, levelheaded and a fantastic person to bounce ideas off. He has an extraordinary memory and has a way of building rapport

with our clients. He has a great sense of humor and can make things light and fun, even in the middle of the hardest cases or days.

Andrew’s cheerful outlook, dedication to public service and his team, along with his incredible resilience and sense of humor is appreciated.

In his spare time, Andrew enjoys riding ATVs, camping, and hiking. He is also an avid traveler having been to 49 states, all ten Canadian provinces, and seven countries so far. He is married with two teenagers and two dogs.

Stacey

Eberly has been an APS investigator since September 2022. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology/sociology from Nebraska Wesleyan University. In Nebraska, Stacey worked for Easterseals Nebraska, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, and Nebraska Department of Corrections.

Prior to coming to APS, Stacey worked for Valley Cities Behavioral Health as a Wrap-around Facilitator. Since joining APS, Stacey has proven to be an invaluable investigator. She is a stout protector and advocate of vulnerable adults. Stacey has an easy-going personality with a great sense of humor that makes others feel at ease and comfortable around her. Region 2 is very fortunate to have someone like Stacey on the Renton Team.

Stacey is family oriented, spends time with her nieces and nephews, and stays busy with her dog, Beverly, and Beverly’s best friend, Bella.

Lance Malone is a Social Service Specialist 4 (lead investigator) in the Aberdeen office working on a regional pilot project to close cases on targeted high caseloads in the region. He has made a noticeable impact on helping the region close cases and providing relief to the investigators. While it is always a challenge

to work investigations started by other investigators, Lance has taken on the tasks and maintained a positive attitude while doing so. He focuses on ensuring our clients are safe, and when desired, putting protective services in place.

Lance leans into complex challenges and seeks novel solutions to them. He demonstrates tenacity in tracking down collaterals and shows a willingness, dare I say eagerness, to complete alleged perpetrator interviews. When Lance has worked his cases to a point where he must wait to do the next step, he exhibits initiative and seeks out additional work. He is always willing to take on courtesy interviews in cases, provide a second investigator if there are safety concerns, or to take a new investigator into the field. Region 3 is appreciative of Lance’s hard work and contributions, and grateful to have Lance on our team!

Stacey Eberly APS Investigator Region 2, Renton

Andrew Vandivier APS Investigator Region 1, Spokane

Lance Malone Lead Investigator Region 3, Aberdeen

Spring Daffodils near La Conner, WA

APS Enhanced Academy is Coming

The APS Enhanced Academy will be launching in Spring 2024!

The Enhanced Academy will provide fundamental training for APS staff to acquire the essential knowledge, skills, and competence to conduct thorough, objective, timely, and person-centered investigations while implementing appropriate protective services to vulnerable adults in Washington State.

Background

The current academy curriculum was created in 2020, merging the regional ABC Training and the

HQ Academy to ensure consistent content and delivery. It was initially designed as in-person training and transitioned to a virtual mode during COVID.

While the present curriculum has indeed improved the standardization of training across regions, it has been recognized that further modifications can make the training more interactive, engaging, and closely aligned with the latest developments in adult protective services.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

Here is a glance of the Enhanced Academy:

• Each content module has clearly defined learning objectives that provide an overview of the main topics in the module.

• The modules are ordered in a sequence that follows the process of APS investigations, from the foundational knowledge of RCW and WAC to intake, from investigation planning to evidence gathering and interviews, from findings, dispositions, and due process to public disclosure.

• Curriculum design aligns with adult learning styles. The Enhanced Academy takes into consideration the characteristics of adult learners and follows a “learn-see-do” approach in design, providing a wide range of activities to optimize experiential learning that fits adult learners.

• The curriculum features engaging and interactive learning experiences. It comprises a plethora of content materials such as a Participant Workbook with space for learners to write down their answers during activities, live intakes, mock interviews, videos, and e-learning courses that focus on specific topics.

• The training mixes field experience and classroom learning. After each module is completed, participants will have approximately one week for field practice before starting the next module. The break allows reinforcement of what is learned in the classroom through structured fieldwork activities such as shadowing, interviewing, conducting Short Portable Assessment for Everyday Decision-Making (SPACED), and writing case notes. By integrating skill building into the curriculum, learners have ample opportunities to apply new knowledge and skills to real work.

• Forensic Interviewing will be incorporated as a module into the academy curriculum structure. The standalone trainings of Forensic Interviewing for Alleged Perpetrators (FI-AP) and Forensic Interviewing for Alleged Victims (FI-AV) are combined into one single module named APS Forensic Interviewing.

• The APS Field Guide for the Social Service Specialist and the Intake Desk Guide will be updated as part of the overall enhancement project. They will serve as important materials for field practice.

• Equity, Diversity, Access, and Inclusion (EDAI) principles are incorporated into curriculum design. The training promotes and fosters a safe, inclusive, and accessible learning environment where staff are empowered to ask questions, express diverse perspectives and engage in open honest discussion.

It may take approximately three months for participants to complete the entire academy training, including all classroom modules and field activities. Coming out of the training, staff will be equipped with a solid knowledge of APS work and strong skills for conducting investigations.

The Enhanced Academy is developed through the collaboration of many programs and individuals throughout APS and ALTSA. Many thanks to the ALTSA Organizational Development Office for facilitating the workshop that assisted with identifying the scope of the enhancements, workshop participants for their valuable input, APS Executive Leadership Team for their steadfast support, regional SHPCs who have contributed their time and expertise as partners in the journey, and the UW Alliance partners for their expertise in forensic interviewing.

EDAI CORNER

THE POWER OF

Take a moment to visualize the workplace you want. Feel what it’s like to be a part of that workplace. For many of us that feels welcoming, safe, and supportive. As you weather work challenges, you lean into the knowledge of your impact and seek solace in knowing that you are valued. Equity, Diversity, Access, and Inclusion (EDAI) is central to creating that healthy work environment.

I propose that together we resolve to take action to make this dream a reality.

Here are things we might try:

1. Take pride and responsibility for doing what you can. Share a smile, uplifting words, a compliment; listen with the intent of lending a kind ear.

2. Lead with respect. Listen, share, use “I statements” rather than accusatory language, give grace and cherish it when it is given to you.

3. Give ourselves permission to pause and consider the best, most effective response to whatever is before you.

4. Give grace to others. It may be helpful to consider that others have similar intention, while their method may vary from yours. After all, we have a wide diversity of thoughts and stories among us.

As we continue to center the concepts of EDAI – treating everyone fairly, respecting our differences, providing access to what we each need to succeed in our roles and valuing our voices, it is helpful to ask ourselves – “What am I doing to further those concepts in the workplace and beyond?”

It is a magical moment when we acknowledge, harness, and activate our power to create that workplace that we want.

Your activation is infectious! Many small actions can lead to great, lasting impact.

submitted by

Claire Knight PEAR Strategic Alignment Administrator

INCLUSIVE PERSPECTIVES

WHITE FRAGILITY

by Robin DiAngelo

Reading this book was a journey that pushed me to think more deeply about race and my place within the broader societal fabric. DiAngelo’s approach to discussing race is direct yet accessible, making complex ideas about systemic racism understandable to a broad audience. Her emphasis on listening and learning from those who experience racial discrimination every day was particularly impactful. The positive light of the book shines through its practicality; it offers readers tools to recognize their own biases and to actively participate in the conversation about race, moving towards a more inclusive and equitable society. It’s a commendable effort that lays the groundwork for meaningful dialogue and change, encouraging us to examine our roles in perpetuating or challenging racial norms.

- Reviewed by Jesse Dixon

KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON

by David Grann

I read this book a few years back. After seeing the film last year, I really encourage folks to read the book. I thought the book was more descriptive of the occurrences and provided more context. When I first read this book, I had no knowledge of what happened to some of the members of the Osage Nation or the wealth they possessed at that time. I felt horrified and sad to read about the lawlessness, greed and lack of accountability that occurred to the folks that preyed on the Osage people.

- Reviewed by Paula Hughes

DISCLAIMER: The views and content expressed in the recommendations provided do not necessarily reflect those of our organization. We encourage readers to use their own judgment and discretion when considering and implementing any advice or suggestions offered.

Expand your horizons with a thoughtfully curated reading list focused on equity, diversity, access, and inclusion, empowering you to embrace varied perspectives and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.

THE BEST OF ENEMIES: RACE AND REDEMPTION IN THE NEW SOUTH

by Osha Gray Davidson

The Best of Enemies, Race and Redemption in the New South is a book that was also made into a movie on Netflix. It is a true story about two people from North Carolina, Ann Atwater, a black civil rights activist and C.P. Ellis who was a leader of the Ku Klux Klan. They had to interact due to their stance on school integration. They gain an understanding of one another, collaborate and a relationship unfolds that lasts their lifetime. I felt hope reading this book; to read how a relationship of hate, evolves into one of affinity and understanding.

- Reviewed by Paula Hughes

KEEP SHARP: BUILD A BETTER BRAIN AT ANY AGE

by Robin DiAngelo

I just read this and would recommend this for any APS staff, family or friends. As a neurosurgeon, the author discusses the science of the brain. He reviews research on cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s and other dementias. He also addresses myths related to the aging mind and how one can modify behaviors to increase mental wellness.

- Reviewed by Paula Hughes

Do you have a book or media recommendation to enhance and support EDAI awareness and/ or the APS workforce?

We’d love to review, share, and publish them in future issues of our newsletter!

Send a short review, title, and author to: jesse.dixon@dshs.wa.gov

DOCUMENT DELETIONS IN TIVA2

A REVIEW

Sometimes mistakes occur when uploading, for example, a file not related to the investigation or a duplicate document uploaded to TIVA2. For investigative integrity, confidentiality, CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) requirements, HIPAA compliance, public disclosure, and policy requirements, it is important that uploads not relevant to the investigation are removed. It is not procedure to relabel an irrelevant upload as “ERROR”, “IGNORE”, or “Different AV” as these documents are required to be removed from the system.

In these situations, please submit a helpdesk ticket following Document Deletion Request Protocol for the Data & Operations Team to remove the document.

If you have questions regarding TIVA2 uploads or downloads, you can refer to the APS SharePoint – Resources page, contacting your regional SHPC Team, or submitting an helpdesk ticket.

Data Unit Drop-In Monthly Sessions

Do you have questions about TIVA2 DataMart, APS Power BI Dashboards, and TIVA2 application?

If so, please join the Data and Operations Unit for the monthly data drop-in sessions to discuss any questions or concerns specific to TIVA2 DataMart, APS Power BI Dashboards, and TIVA2 application hosted by Sajan Karki and Dave Beacham. Sessions are held the 4th Wednesday of every month.

Upcoming schedule as follows:

Wednesday, April 24 from 11am-12pm

Wednesday, May 22 from 11am-12pm

Wednesday, June 26 from 11am-12pm

2024 APS AWARD NOMINATIONS

Please consider recognizing the excellence of a colleague by submitting a nomination today*.

Click link below to begin submitting your nomination.

*NOMINATIONS WILL BE OPEN MARCH 18 THROUGH APRIL 30, 2024.

YOU ARE MORE THAN enough

Mental Health Awareness Month

Submitted by Rebeca Estrada, PhD, Region 2 CIESM Program Manager

Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in the U.S. since 1949. Every year during the month of May, there is a national movement to raise awareness about mental health to educate and break the stigma around mental illness. Unfortunately, many individuals with mental illness struggle in silence. There are close to 450 million people worldwide who are living with mental illness, yet nearly two thirds of those individuals never seek treatment. Talking about mental health can be sensitive and challenging, but it is an important discussion to have, particularly when someone is struggling.

If you don’t know how to start a discussion with someone about their mental health, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers some suggestions to help you begin:

• Talk to them in a space that is comfortable, where you won’t likely be interrupted and where there are minimal distractions.

• Be a good listener, be responsive and make eye contact with a caring approach.

• Speak in a relaxed and calm manner, and ease into the conversation gradually. It may be that the person is not in a place to talk, and that is OK. Greeting them and extending a gentle kindness can go a long way. Sometimes less is more.

• If a person is not ready to talk, they may become upset or confused by your conversation with them. Genuinely express your concern and let them know that they can come to you when they are ready.

• Be respectful, compassionate, and empathetic to their feelings by engaging in reflective listening, such as “I hear that you are having a bad day today. Yes, some days are certainly

more challenging than others.” Instead of directing the conversation at them with ‘you’ statements, use ‘I’ statements instead.

• Ask open-ended questions and give them the opportunity to talk and open up. Don’t press them to talk if they are not ready and avoid prying.

• Speak at a level appropriate to their age and development level. Keep in mind that mental illness has nothing to do with a person’s intelligence.

• Show respect and understanding for how they describe and interpret their symptoms.

• Offer your support and connect them to help if you feel that they need it. Ask, “How can I help?” if appropriate.

• Give the person hope for recovery and offer encouragement.

Sometimes the support that you can offer won’t be enough. If you suspect that someone is showing signs of a mental health condition and may need professional help, encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional. If you are aware of resources, offer to assist them in finding a provider.

If you or a loved one is at risk of suicide, help is immediately available with trained crisis counselors 24/7 with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline by dialing 988 or by using the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.

If you would like additional Mental Health information or resources, please feel free to reach out to your Regional Critical Incident and Employee Stress Management Program Manager.

REGIONAL SUCCESS STORIES

A little compassion and professionalism can go a long way in transforming the lives of Washington’s vulnerable adults

Region 1

Alead investigator and newly hired investigator, exemplified unwavering dedication, teamwork and collaboration that not only showcased their remarkable investigative skills but more importantly, had a profound impact on a life. As the investigators approached the residence located in an area known for crime and drug activity, they were met with an individual believed to be the alleged perpetrator, was seemingly under the influence of intoxicants. The investigators persisted in their attempts to enter the residence to check on the client however, they were refused and denied entry. The alleged perpetrator stated that the client was taken from the home by her son the previous week. Instinctively, the investigators returned to the office to track down the son through system searches. A crucial phone call made to the son revealed he had not seen his mother in months.

Coordinating with law enforcement, the investigators embarked on a second attempt. This time, they gained entry, encountering an atmosphere of filth, garbage, and unspeakable living conditions. In the client’s room, they discovered a heartbreaking scene – a disorientated, incapacitated vulnerable adult presenting as emaciated with bruising, blood on their clothing, and a desperate need for medical attention. With precision and compassion, the investigators engaged law enforcement and paramedics, leading to a swift hospital admission for the client. Recognizing that the individual required protection, care, and oversight, they quickly engaged with the hospital social workers and medical staff, ultimately triggering the pursuit of emergency guardianship. The client is now free from neglect, abuse, and recovered from surgery in a long-term skilled nursing facility.

Olympic Peninsula Western Washington

Region 2

As a result of an investigator (Financial Exploitation Specialist) working two complex investigations, safe outcomes were secured for the vulnerable adults who featured in two news articles.

A client’s son misappropriated over $500,000, leaving the client without care. During a joint visit with APS and law enforcement, the client’s condition was concerning and was taken to the hospital. The alleged perpetrator was charged with eight counts of theft from a vulnerable adult in the first degree. The investigator was successful in petitioning for a full guardianship and conservatorship while the client awaited placement.

A man was arrested for stealing $900,000 from his elderly grandmother. The individual was charged with four counts of Theft 1 and abandonment of a dependent person. The investigator’s advocacy supported the criminal investigation. She noticed the alleged perpetrator was transient and took the client to random hotels leaving them alone without care. As the investigator searched for the victim, the alleged perpetrator eluded her contact. When the investigator finally located the vulnerable adult, she had concerns for their safety and contacted the Designated Crisis Responders. The client was placed on a hold and taken to the hospital. The investigator petitioned for guardianship and the client was placed into an adult family home.

Due to the investigator’s scrupulous work and advocacy, both perpetrators are on the abuse registry. A notable mention is the support of our fastidious counsel from the Assistant Attorney General’s office who were swift in obtaining legal remedies to protect the clients. Their work is appreciated in effectively petitioning and securing the orders.

Read the news articles by clicking below:

• Man accused of stealing $580k from elderly mother

• Whatcom caregiver suspected of stealing nearly $1 million

Region 3

Thanks to the tireless efforts of an investigator and two supervisors who halted a case of financial exploitation involving a client who resided with their daughter and her family since 2014. The client was diagnosed with moderate dementia with a steady decrease in short-term memory and increased confusion. Through forensic accounting, it was found that funds were supporting the perpetrators and their family since 2015.

Funds were routinely transferred from joint accounts to accounts solely held by the perpetrators and their family. Approximately $2.5 million of the client’s money was taken, while the daughter served as power of attorney. Funds were routinely transferred from joint accounts to accounts solely held by the perpetrators and their family. The client’s funds were also gifted and used to purchase multiple properties.

A guardianship was appointed through APS. Following the guardianship appointment, the perpetrators attempted to withdraw additional funds from the client’s joint account. Due to the bank’s quick action, they notified the guardian, distributed the fund balance to the guardian and closed the account.

Due to the efforts of APS staff, they were able to substantiate, and law enforcement and the county prosecutor’s office filed criminal charges against the alleged perpetrators.

Getting to Know One Another

Understanding how our unique experiences contribute to a stronger and more diverse workforce

Timothy “Kyle” Tyler APS Investigator Tumwater Office

In the heart of the South Sound region, amidst the verdant landscapes that define Washington State, Kyle Tyler stands as a testament to resilience, adaptation, and dedication.

Transitioning from a two-decade-long military career to a pivotal role in civilian life, Tyler’s journey from the structured world of the Army to the communityfocused mission of Adult Protective Services (APS) in the Tumwater office is nothing short of inspirational.

Kyle Tyler has woven a rich tapestry of experiences, beginning as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the United States Army. Tyler describes his military service as his foundational years, where the ethos of leadership, camaraderie, and the drive to serve were deeply instilled. “In the Army, you’re not just a soldier; you’re part of a larger cause, a force for change. I carried that with me into my role at APS,” he reflects.

Before joining APS, Tyler dedicated twenty years to military service, specializing as a Human Resources Specialist. His career in the Army was marked by a series of progressive leadership roles, culminating in his position within the Special Operations community. It was here that Tyler honed his skills in personnel management, a role that, according to him, isn’t too dissimilar from his current civilian position. “The transition from military to civilian life is significant, but the core mission remains the same - to serve, to aid, and to lead,” Tyler says.

Upon leaving the Army, Tyler sought a career that would allow him to continue serving others,

a pursuit that led him to APS. “The conversation I had at a job fair on Joint Base Lewis McChord opened my eyes to the possibilities within APS. It was an opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” Tyler shares. At APS, he found a new avenue to apply his leadership and advocacy skills, particularly in support of vulnerable adults, including veterans.

Tyler’s unique background as a veteran brings invaluable insights to his role at APS. Early in his tenure, he identified the critical need for connecting veterans with resources and benefits, a realization that stemmed from his own experiences. “Many veterans aren’t aware of the support available to them. Being able to bridge that gap in a matter of minutes is profoundly rewarding,” he emphasizes. This effort has not only improved the lives of many veterans but has also highlighted the need for veteran-specific knowledge within APS.

Working within the APS team in Tumwater, Tyler has found a sense of camaraderie reminiscent of his military days. “The sense of belonging, the mutual support, it’s akin to what I felt in the Army. It’s about being part of a team that genuinely cares,” he notes. This environment has allowed Tyler to bring his professional expertise and personal experiences into the workplace, fostering a culture of understanding and empathy.

His military service, particularly within the Ranger Regiment and Special Forces, endowed Tyler with rare and invaluable experiences and lessons. From deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan to highstakes operations, Tyler’s military career was both challenging and rewarding. Yet, the memory of fallen comrades leaves the most indelible mark on his psyche. “The sacrifices made by those I served with, the stories of valor and loss, they inform my dedication to my work and life,” Tyler reflects solemnly.

The transition from military to civilian life is a path fraught with challenges, but Tyler navigates it with grace and purpose. He advocates for robust support systems for veterans and highlights the importance of community and mental health resources. “Leaving the military doesn’t mean you leave behind the need for support, for a mission. Finding that purpose in civilian life is crucial,” he asserts.

As our conversation nears its close, Tyler wishes to honor the memory of his fallen comrades, soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. He names CPL Benjamin S. Kopp, MSG Joseph Kapacziewski, SGT Ronald Kubik, SGT Jason Santora, CPT Kyle Comfort, SSG Avonye Chisolm, SSG Jeremy Lomogda, SFC Jeremy Griffin, SFC Reymund Transfiguracion, CPT Jennifer Moreno, SGT Patrick Hawkins, SGT Joseph Peters, and PFC Cody Patterson. “These individuals, and many others, have shaped the course of our history and our lives. Remembering their stories is a small way to honor their legacy,” Tyler concludes.

Kyle Tyler’s story is a poignant reminder of the ongoing journey of service, from the battlefields overseas to the communities at home. His dedication to aiding those in need, especially vulnerable adults and veterans, underscores the indomitable spirit of those who serve. In remembering the fallen, Tyler not only pays tribute to their sacrifice but also reaffirms his commitment to a life of service, a legacy of his military past, and a guiding light for his work in the present.

Updates & Information

POLICY UPDATES

The April 1 release of the updated decision-making policy is an exciting example of collaborative work that incorporated ideas and suggestions from the APS Policy Suggestion Box, the APS Policy Workshop and members of the Policy Community of Practice. A special thanks to all staff who helped bring the updated policy to life, bringing clarity and improved processes to the critical work that we do in APS. We look forward to the updated and enhanced polices of the future with the continuation of collaboration as we continue to work on the policy suggestions from the APS Policy Workshop and Policy Suggestion Box.

The updated Field Guide for the Social Service Specialist is another incredible example of collaborative work between field and headquarters staff that incorporated suggestions from both the Policy Workshop (e.g., additional Residential Care Services information) and the Academy Enhancement Workshop (e.g. robust field training). This impressive guide goes hand in hand with the Enhanced Academy and is sure to assist in building strong foundational consistent training. Thank you to the regional SHPCs for helping to bridge the classroom to the field training.

The APS Policy Unit will be tackling the documentation policy next. Staff suggestions have been collected from the APS Policy Suggestion box and the APS Policy Workshop that were related to TIVA2 activity requirements and requesting clarity on documentation around activities. We look forward to bringing the draft to the Policy Community of Practice and releasing the enhanced documentation policy.

WORKFORCE UPDATES

The initiative to launch the eleven-week Core Competencies and Hiring Process workshop aimed to provide support, consistency, and standardization in the recruiting, hiring, and onboarding process. The workshop consisted of 40 APS, Human Resources Division (HRD), and EDAI staff from various roles across the state, including intake, investigators, trainers, supervisors, and executive leadership. The goal was to establish a set of core competencies for investigators, as well as create a hiring process and onboarding guide for managers to ensure a fair, equal, and equitable hiring process across APS, mitigating any risks. Additionally, the initiative aimed to ensure APS hires the right person for the job by revisiting necessary core competencies and enhancing transparency regarding the daily work of investigators, enabling potential candidates to fully understand the role they are applying for.

During the workshop, APS staff had the chance to propose suggestions for improving the hiring and onboarding process. One such recommendation involved streamlining the expectations for Social Service Specialist (SSS) 1-3 core competencies across APS. We are excited to announce the launch of the newly revised Performance Description Form (PDF), which has been finalized and approved for all APS SSS3 positions. The new PDF reflects the established APS SSS3 core competencies for an investigator to thrive within APS.

Another suggestion involved integrating an interview tool to enhance the hiring process and optimize candidate outcomes. APS is continuously

working with HRD to support leadership throughout the Behavioral Based Interview (BBI) and Target Selection (TS) Interview guide process. We are excited to announce that Region 1, 2, and 3 have partnered with HRD to establish the TS Interview and/or the BBI.

Region 1 has partnered with HRD by conducting an updated Success Profile Workshop in relation to the recently revised PDF. Region 1 has implemented the use of the revised TS Interview Guide throughout their interview and hiring process. Region 2 and Region 3 has partnered with HRD to implement the BBI Guide in relation to the SSS3 core competencies that was established in the 2023 APS Core Competencies & Hiring Process Workshop. On a state-wide level, APS has worked closely with HRD to better support leadership throughout the interview process, with the end goal of hiring candidates that will thrive within APS.

Ongoing efforts include enhancing clarity and transparency in job postings, with plans to revamp announcements to align with SSS 1-3 core competencies, including a day-in-the-life

video. Additionally, there’s a focus on ensuring consistent and standardized supervisory training through collaboration with the University of Washington Alliance to enhance the Supervisory Academy. Furthermore, work is underway to standardize the hiring and onboarding process, with the development of an APS hiring process and onboarding guide aimed at supporting leadership throughout the new hire journey, expected to be implemented by Spring 2024.

We appreciate all of those who contributed towards the workshop and understand the importance of establishing and aligning investigator core competencies to ensure we are asking the right questions throughout the hiring and onboarding process, and continue to fulfill our mission and goals. If you have any additional recommendations, please reach out to Natalie Boulos as we are always excited to hear your innovative ideas as we truly believe the work that was conducted in this workshop will continue to have positive impacts on future recruitment and retention outcomes.

Coffee Break with

Grab a cup of coffee and call-in to chat with APS Director Kathy Morgan!

This casual chat is the perfect opportunity to learn about what’s new with APS and ask questions! Want to learn more about employee engagement, training, or workgroup updates? Ask away! She’s happy to chat about what’s on your mind. Quarterly