THE S UEEZE -
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l e a d e r I N S I G H T S
Greetings!
Collectively, through Parks, Libraries, Housing and Community Development, Animal Care, and Community Services, our work is driven by a shared commitment to enhance the quality of life for every individual, family, and community member by connecting people with resources So, what does that look like? How does our work show up?
OC Parks ensures that County parks and facilities remain vibrant, accessible, and adaptable spaces for recreation, wellness, and environmental stewardship. Coming attractions include Harriett M. Wieder Regional playground ribbon cutting opportunity, construction projects in Crawford Canyon Park, the continued expansion of Mile Square Regional Park, plus all the fun and festive community events that are hosted throughout our parks and facilities.
OC Animal Care is a place of compassion, where every animal is cared for while awaiting their forever homes. OC Animal Care has already launched three new pilot projects this year to evaluate new and creative strategies to manage trends in animal welfare and continue its mission to help people and pets in Orange County. The new pilots include expanded Viewing Hours on Saturdays and Sundays, quarterly on-site adoption events, and thanks to grant funding from California for all Animals, families who adopt a dog from OC Animal Care will receive a free four-week, virtual dog training scholarship from GoodPup.
Affordable and stabling housing remains one of our community’s most pressing needs and Housing and Community Development continues to rise to the challenge. In FY 23-24, OC Housing Authority successfully housed 1,076 new households, of which 603 were homeless at admission to the program. And in FY 23-24, Community Development used federal housing and urban development funds to enhance the quality of life for 66,144 people, expand affordable housing opportunities for 68 households, and provided public services for 11,161 people.
OC Community Services connects older residents and their caregivers to resources through the Information & Assistance Call Center. In FY 23-24 the I&A survey reported a 100% Customer Satisfaction rate, surpassing the 90% goal. OCCS actively enables Veterans and their families to connect to benefits, with over 32,000 served in FY 23-24, and helped almost 16,000 residents in FY 23-24 who are employed, unemployed, and underemployed achieve self-sufficiency while equipping businesses with recruiting and training services. The Office on Aging continues spearhead the County’s efforts in developing the Master Plan for Aging and we look forward to its completion this year. The Veterans Service Office is eagerly awaiting work on the Veterans Cemetery while increasing awareness of the office for military members and their families, and Workforce and Economic Development is gearing up for career fairs and events to connect employers with their future employees
OC Public Libraries have long been sanctuaries of knowledge, creativity, and community. From empowering all ages through unique programs and resources, promoting books and reading, and introducing the library of things, OCPL continues to make a positive difference in people’s lives with 3.53 million library visits, 9.6 million items borrowed, and 14,239 programs in 2024. We look forward to A Slice of Literary Orange events, with keynote speakers and bestselling authors, throughout this year.
Finally, integral to the success of each program is the foundational support of our committed Administrative Services team. They work diligently to ensure we have what we need to connect people and resources. So how does our work show up? As we have seen, it shows up in actions and outcomes. And its pretty incredible. Thank you!
All the best,
Dylan Wright OCCR Director
A leader is one goes the way, and
who knows the way, shows the way.
Animal care
OC Animal Care continues to evolve in response to both emerging challenges and new opportunities within the field of animal welfare. As community needs change and shift, our shelter team remains compassionate, forward-thinking, and the following program initiatives, combined with pilot program insights, will help our shelter thrive in 2025.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the possibilities that 2025 holds for the continued growth and success of our shelter, and the roles that each of our team members play in shaping the future of animal welfare. From the first moment an animal arrives at the shelter, whether lost, abandoned, or surrendered, our staff ensures they are treated with kindness, dignity and respect Whether during feedings, administering medical care, or simply providing a comforting touch, our staff provides a sense of safety and hope during a challenging and stressful time for these animals. The work we do is challenging but is also incredibly rewarding.
Reducing the number of animals in our shelter and promoting successful adoptions remains our top priority for the new year. I am excited to share that in 2025, OC Animal Care is exploring new ways to help people and pets by launching three new pilot programs. The first is Expanded Weekend Viewing Hours
OC Animal Care is now offering extended viewing hours from 12 to 5 pm on Saturdays and Sundays for potential adopters to view ready-to-go home dogs and cats. The second pilot program was made possible by a grant and allows all dog adopters to receive 4-weeks of free virtual dog training from GoodPup. And lastly, OC Animal Care is hosting quarterly adoption events with discounted adoption fees, resource booths for pet owners, and more fun activities for the whole family
Through these pilot programs, the shelter will be able to identify potential challenges, gather valuable feedback, and refine processes to optimize resources and increase the overall success of new adoption strategies to improve positive pet placement rates and meet the evolving needs of the community.
OC Animal Care is reviewing and updating its Strategic Plan to adapt to recent socioeconomic changes, incorporating public and stakeholder feedback. The organization anticipates significant achievements in 2025 for its staff, animals, and the community Visitors are encouraged to explore new pilot programs and consider ways to support shelter animals, such as adopting or fostering pets.
Services oc Community
OC Community Services commits to empowering communities by addressing the unique needs of individuals and families across the county. Collaboration is central to achieving this, allowing us to bridge gaps, share resources, and deliver comprehensive support to those we serve
As the aging population grows, their needs increasingly span multiple departments, highlighting the importance of working together. Through initiatives like integrating Veterans Service Office information services into the Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) program and partnering with OC Public Libraries on intergenerational programs, we expand access to resources and foster meaningful connections between generations. These examples highlight how collaboration enriches the services we provide, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of our communities.
The Veterans Service Office is dedicated to more than just filing claims with the US Department of Veterans Affairs The team focuses on addressing barriers to benefits and connecting Veterans, military members, and their dependents with resources to help them thrive in Orange County. This work is guided by values such as encouragement, integrity, purpose, and commitment to our “big picture” goals, ensuring that those who served our nation receive the support they deserve.
In Workforce and Economic Development, the connection between a thriving workforce and a robust local economy is undeniable. Economic growth depends on skilled individuals who build communities, sustain industries, and drive innovation The Workforce Development Board exemplifies this through programs that transform lives and industries alike. One powerful example is the story of a board member whose career in the electrical trades began with a simple flyer he noticed at a local work center. That moment, paired with training and opportunity, changed his life and enabled him to support some of the top builders and employers in Orange County. His journey highlights how one connection can spark a ripple effect, inspiring growth in individuals, industries, and communities.
Leadership
is about creating these moments of transformation by fostering opportunities where people, industries, and talent converge It requires balancing a focus on the road ahead while navigating challenges and staying connected to the people we serve and the teams we lead.
& Housing development Community oc
OCHA’s program goal for the new year is to fully utilize our available funding to assist as many very low- and low-income households as possible Through the hard work and efforts of OCHA staff, we currently assist approximately 11,500 households through our Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Special Purpose Voucher (SPV) programs. A recent example of the efforts OCHA team members take to support this vulnerable population involves a disabled 91-year-old. OCHA staff were made aware that a 91-year-old single household member had recently been confined to a wheelchair and her assisted unit was on the 2nd floor of the apartment complex, which made navigating the property a challenge. Staff assisted the client with finding a downstairs unit in the same complex, worked with property management to facilitate a move to the downstairs unit, and contacted Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to gain approval of the move HUD approved the move and OCHA staff were able to remove the barriers for this client to continue to live independently with dignity.
For 2025, the program goal for Housing Development is to support the financing and development of new affordable and supportive housing throughout the county so that individuals and families with low to extremely low household incomes can have access to safe and stable housing. The housing units we develop serve people with long histories of homelessness and disabling health conditions, who need deeply affordable housing with wrap-around supportive services to remain successfully housed. In addition to developing new housing, Housing Development also oversees all the County-assisted housing developments to ensure that the housing quality standards are met, and that affordability is maintained
In 2025, Community Development looks forward to providing communities with resources and guidance to address unique community development needs HUD provides annual grant funds on a formula basis through CDBG, ESG and HOME funds to jurisdictions to develop viable urban communities through the provision of decent housing and a suitable living environment and the expansion of economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons.
Looking ahead to the new year, Community Development staff and our participating cities are dedicated to ensuring that the funding that we receive complies with federal and local regulations and are used in the most efficient manner to serve our low-income communities
oc
Parks
At OC Parks, every member of the team is consistently celebrated. OC Parks’ leadership strives to foster growth and maintain an environment where everyone feels empowered in their role. Creating a culture that allows the team to feel confident, successful and supported is crucial While the work is often challenging, it is important to always set a positive example by reminding ourselves of why we do what we do, and the value of the services OC Parks provides to the community.
Our award-winning parks and programs are enjoyed by millions of visitors each year OC Parks takes pride in its diverse park offerings and ensuring parks remain open, safe and clean for the public to enjoy year-round, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the many staff members tasked with managing them Cross-collaboration between facilities and divisions fosters a strong sense of teamwork and promotes a culture of inclusivity that recognizes the ingenuity of everyone at OC Parks. OC Parks’ leadership prioritizes staff recognition, sharing diverse perspectives and celebrating various achievements amongst the team whenever possible
To further promote the teamwork mentality, Operations Meetings also provide an opportunity for staff to visit various OC Parks facilities and engage with members they may not see every day, helping build lasting relationships
Opportunities for staff development are also at the forefront of our leadership team’s mission. The OC Parks team takes part in numerous professional organizations to network with peers in similar professions while partaking in free online webinars and other educational opportunities, when feasible, to promote continued learning. OC Parks staff also participates in various County-wide trainings to enhance their on-the-job knowledge and further develop their skills Employees are encouraged to seek opportunities for development from others within the same field through in-house trainings or webinars or leverage the expertise of other experienced staff throughout the County of Orange, learning from their successes This includes the OC Parks-run
PUBLIC
oc LIBRARIES
OCPL cultivates a welcoming, dynamic environment where knowledge, culture, and community thrive for both the public we serve and the staff who bring our mission to life.
By staying mission driven, OCPL adapts to the evolving needs of our communities, leveraging trends, technology, and best practices. Engaging directly with patrons helps us shape programs and services that reflect diverse needs We empower and enrich lives by promoting literacy, fostering meaningful experiences, and offering welcoming spaces, expert assistance, and curated collections.
A cornerstone of OCPL’s success is empowering employees through specialized training and collaborative opportunities. Programs such as the Supervisor Toolbox help staff enhance their leadership skills, while workshops like Generative AI Implications in Public Libraries, Intellectual Freedom and Censorship, and Giving and Receiving Feedback reinforce core values of librarianship and equip staff with essential skills for workplace interactions and service excellence
Collaboration is central to our approach. Committees comprising staff from across branches drive innovation and creativity The Library of Things committee expands lending options to include non-traditional items, broadening resources available to patrons. The Kindergarten Readiness Committee supports early literacy by helping families prepare children for school, while Comic Orange engages readers with graphic novels and comics, promoting literacy in new and exciting ways
In 2024, OCPL leveraged nearby conferences hosted by the American Library Association and the California Library Association to foster professional growth Staff attended workshops, networked with peers, and shared expertise. Notably, the Kindergarten Readiness Committee presented on designing kindergarten readiness initiatives, and staff shared mobile library programming strategies and information on a sustainable spa day program.
OCPL’s commitment to intellectual freedom underscores our philosophy. Training equips staff to address book challenges while advocating for equitable access to information and the freedom to read. By defending diverse viewpoints, OCPL exemplifies its dedication to creating inclusive spaces for learning and exploration. The impact of these efforts is reflected in community stories collected during Library Card Sign-Up Month:
As a child, going to the library meant getting to read We were poor, and that was the only way I was able to expand and experience the world. I am 70 now, and walking through the doors of any library reminds me of the knowledge I developed from the resources that the public library provided my community. Today, a library means so much more it’s a place to gather, sometimes to feed underprivileged children, but most of all, it’s a place to freely choose what you wish to read or listen to without restrictions. I will always support our public libraries. Public means all, not some of us
I was a new mom struggling with postpartum depression, and one trip to the library saved my life. The librarian at Tustin was kind and supportive just by having a conversation with me and my son I’ll never forget that. Now my son and I have finished reading 1,000 books before he started TK this year!
These stories affirm the essential role libraries play and inspire our staff to continue advancing our mission OCPL is driven by a vision to inspire growth and innovation while championing equity and community connection. Staff are our greatest resource and the knowledge that everyday we are empowering and enriching our communities helps us all contribute meaningfully to our shared mission
services admin
As we move forward into the coming months, the County faces significant budget constraints that it is working diligently to manage As a result, the County has been examining various strategies to address the financial shortfall while still providing essential services in Orange County; this includes a hiring freeze, limiting discretionary spending, and increasing operational efficiencies. Especially during this time, OCCR Admin recognizes the importance of embodying the values of support, collaboration, and thoughtful planning that maximize the use of available resources while ensuring compliance with County policy and other mandates. Admin Services was recently involved in implementing several initiatives with these values in mind
The first initiative is Finance Tracker, which replaced the outdated Financial Management System (FMS).
Developed by OCIT with input from OCCR Finance Staff, Finance Tracker enables users to submit, approve, and track budget requests. The new system was implemented in November 2024 and is required to submit budget requests for the FY 2025-26 budget A recorded training session, as well as detailed job aids, are available for users on the OCCR Finance Services SharePoint site.
Another significant initiative was the rapid launch of the new County Bidding System, OpenGov. With limited guidance and time, OCCR Procurement worked closely with the County Procurement Office (CPO), County
Counsel and the OpenGov Team to successfully implement this new bidding system and test its capabilities, which is now used throughout the County for all solicitations, contracts, and insurance. OCCR Procurement will continue to work with CPO to improve efficiency by streamlining policies and procedures while supporting OCCR Programs
Recently, Admin Services launched the OCCR AI Workgroup to assess Generative AI usage among employees The workgroup aims to discuss AI usage protocols in line with the OCIT policy, various AI applications, appropriate approaches, and how to help protect the County's data and IT infrastructure This collaborative effort, led by the OCCR Business Office and including representatives from each OCCR Program, will not only reinforce our commitment to ethical practices but also help to leverage AI tools responsibly and effectively
These are just a few examples that illustrate the core values that drive OCCR Admin Services daily Each unit within Admin Services is committed to consistently seeking ways to enhance our services and support to OCCR Programs. We will continue to stay positive and proactive in our approach, recognizing that our collective efforts will not only help to ease the burden of financial constraints but also strengthen the ties that connect OCCR, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose in connecting people with resources
SAFETy
A
Safety Tips
s we enter spring and begin cleaning, it's a good time to remember the importance of poison prevention. Staying aware of potential risks and taking the right precautions can help keep you safe at both work and home. Here are some important tips.
workplace
Know the Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Safety Data Sheets provide key information on handling chemicals and potential risks. Always read the SDS for any chemicals you use.
Follow Safety Guidelines: Stick to OCCR’s Hazard Communication Plan for proper labeling, storage, and safety measures when working with hazardous chemicals.
Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use the right PPE (gloves, masks, goggles, etc.) when handling chemicals to reduce health risks.
Know Emergency Procedures: Be prepared with first aid steps and emergency procedures in case of exposure to harmful substances.
Home
Store Chemicals Safely: Keep cleaning products, medications, and toxic substances out of reach of children and pets, and always ensure containers are tightly sealed.
Read Labels: Carefully read labels on cleaning products, pesticides, and medications, paying attention to safety warnings
Use Products Correctly: Never mix chemicals or use them in ways they’re not intended, as this can create dangerous reactions.
Keep Emergency Numbers Handy: Have Poison Control’s number (1-800-222-1222) visible and easily accessible in case of an emergency
By being aware of the risks, following safety guidelines, and using available resources like Safety Data Sheets and OCCR’s Hazard Communication Plan, you can significantly reduce the chances of poisoning both at work and at home Stay safe, stay informed, and help protect yourself
Service Awards
25
Scott Evans, OC Animal Care
Caroline Benedict, OC Housing Authority
Loretta Fonseca, OC Housing Authority
Jerry Martinez, OC Housing Authority
Denair Harris, OC Parks
Raquel Ariaz, OC Parks
Jason Hensley, OC Public Libraries
Sylvia Sepulveda, OC Public Libraries
20
Cami Visatovici, OC Housing Authority
Maria Sanchez, OC Housing Authority
Dario Martinez, OC Parks
Brian Beach, OC Parks
David Raya, OC Parks
Alisa Padilla, OC Public Libraries
Tracy Nguyen, OC Public Libraries
Tami Martin, OC Public Libraries
10
Carlos Rios, Admin Services
Joshua Farris, Admin Services
Elisa Hernandez, OC Animal Care
Rachel Karpel, OC Housing Authority
Janice Plain, OC Public Libraries
Helen Bui, OC Public Libraries
Nhung Nguyen, OC Public Libraries
James Kahle, OC Public Libraries
Theresa Olah, OC Public Libraries
Mario Fonseca, OC Public Libraries
Maggie Villalobos, OC Public Libraries
5
Jeremy Hampton, Admin Services
Steven Tran, Admin Services
Alexina Estrada, OC Animal Care
Jenifer Rhee, OC Animal Care
Miguel Gonzalez, OC Housing Authority
William Gelnaw, OC Parks
Landon Gutierrez, OC Parks
Daniel Hirchag, OC Parks
Meena Madan, OC Parks
Lynda Belgum, OC Public Libraries
David Lopez, OC Public Libraries
Heather Daugherty, OC Public Libraries
Sarah Grant, OC Public Libraries
Ashley Navarro, OC Public Libraries
Jacqueline Ornelas, OC Public Libraries
Joyce Peng, OC Public Libraries
Yolanda Sarmiento, OC Public Libraries
