OCCR Newsletter - The Squeeze: Issue II

&ship collaboration

IRECTOR’SD MESSAGE

Greetings:

As we embark on a new season filled with the promise of community growth and connection, I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to each and every one of you. Our collective dedication to enhancing the quality of life for our community members has been the driving force behind our success, and I am honored to lead such a passionate and committed team.

During our recent Won By One event, we had the opportunity to recognize and celebrate individuals who have truly exemplified our core values of hard work, leadership, and dedication. It was inspiring to see so many of you acknowledged for your exceptional efforts and unwavering commitment to excellence Congratulations again to all our winners!

Our parks, libraries, animal shelter, housing and community development, and community services play pivotal roles in shaping the fabric of our community. They serve as spaces where people come together, share experiences, and build lasting connections. As we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, it is essential to reflect on the significance of our mission: connecting people and resources.

As we reflect on the past quarter, it's evident that our commitment to enhancing community resources has yielded remarkable results. Whether it's the expansion of our outreach programs, the introduction of new services, or the innovative collaborations that have unfolded, each effort contributes to the broader goal of making our community stronger and more resilient.

I am confident that we will achieve new heights in building a stronger, more connected community As we embark on this journey, let us celebrate our achievements, learn from our experiences, and always keep the well-being of our community at the forefront of our efforts.

Thank you for your hard work, passion, and commitment to our shared mission. Here's to another year of creating spaces where connections flourish and our community thrives.

All the best,

Dylan Wright OCCR Director

OCAnimalCare

Did you know that OC Animal Care took 14,673 animals under their care in 2023?

OC Animal Care is comprised of different departments that are all filled with amazing and talented people. Each one plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of services to the community by focusing on various aspects that contribute to the welfare of the animals in our care. Although they each have different roles, they all come together to work toward a common goalhelping people and pets in our community! This includes education and outreach programs to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership and attending adoption events,

adoption promotions to encourage the community to adopt pets from our shelter, collaborations with partner shelters and rescue organizations, partnering with community members through our volunteer and foster programs animal enrichment programs, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and health care for all animals in the shelter, and providing excellent customer service, addressing the needs and concerns of potential adopters, volunteers, and visitors.

Program Accomplishments

During the Tustin Hangar Fire and resulting local state of emergency, OC Animal Care took every precaution to ensure the safety of our staff, volunteers, community visitors, and animals in our care. This included pivoting shelter operations to mostly indoors, shelter enrichment, call for emergency dog fosters, and animal transports Thank you to all OCCR programs and admin staff for supporting OC Animal Care team members through a variety of needs during this time.

Beginning January 17, 2024, the shelter is open daily for Adoption Visits from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and for Viewing Hours from 2 to 5 p m , providing the community with Daily Adoption Options to create a more flexible and accessible adoption experience.

OC Community Services (OCCS) continues to use leadership and collaboration to empower diverse residents through impactful initiatives. The OC Office on Aging (OoA) worked with key stakeholders to bridge the digital divide for older adults Their "Access to Technology" grant distributed over 1,100 iPads, enabling connections with loved ones, resource access, and skill development. Additionally, all OC residents over 60 have free access to over 4,000 online classes. Through these types of partnerships, OCCS tackles unique challenges faced by different community groups Another example is through the WIOA-funded Veteran Employment Program, a collaborative effort between the OC Veterans Service Office (VSO) and OC Workforce & Economic Development Division (WEDD). This program offers personalized support, including counseling, training, job placement, and case management, to ensure Veterans have the tools they need to thrive upon their return to civilian life. WEDD also partnered with OC Sheriff and OC Probation to use virtual reality (VR) headsets for career training in secure facilities. This 13week program equips justice-involved individuals with the tools they need to successfully reintegrate into the workforce upon release. These initiatives exemplify OCCS' commitment to collaboration and its positive impact on the community to enhance their quality of life.

OC Community Services

OfficeonAging

OoA continues to expand its collaboration and teamwork by partnering with OC Public Libraries to bring intergenerational activities, such as book signings, cooking demonstrations, and more for older and younger generations to enjoy.

Orange County Veterans can ace their job interviews thanks to the Veteran Employment Program (VEP)! They receive expert coaching through mock interviews and build lasting connections with VEP staff, giving them the confidence and support they deserve

OC Housing & Community

Development

OC Housing & Community Development (OC H&CD) relies on collaboration as shown by these examples of both internal and external collaboration that have resulted in enhanced services During COVID, the Housing Development Division built upon a team model to create an intra County agency team to apply for Homekey funding to purchase/rehab motels into to permanent supportive housing. This team comprised initially of Health Care Agency (HCA), County Executive Office (CEO) Real Estate, Office of Care Coordination and Housing Development staff worked together to to apply for $90.7 million representing over 400 units of new affordable/supportive housing.

The Community Development Division works collaboratively with cities in management of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program Staff meet and answer questions for city staff looking to apply for funding or that already have funding Staff provides technical assistance as needed

Additionally, collaboration happens daily within the Housing Authority where the various sections in charge of leasing, occupancy, special housing programs and administration work together to ensure clients get and stay housed and landlords receive timely rental payment

With the opening of the waiting list for the first time in eleven years, the teamwork led to staff from various sections coming together to help fill in where needed at events, reviewing documents, updating the website and making sure existing clients on the program continued to receive timely service. The collaboration and teamwork resulted in over 57,000 applications being received during two weeks. None of this happens without collaboration, including OCCR Administration support

Did you know?

OCHCD’s Notice of Funding Availability which is the funding mechanism for affordable housing development has been around for over two decades

Program Accomplishments

OCHA opened the Housing Choice Voucher waiting list for the first time in a decade and received over 57,000 applications over two weeks.

Housing Development issued a NOFA with $67 million and 210 Project Based Vouchers to support development of permanent supportive housing units and meet the identified need of 2,396 units by 2029.

OC Parks

Opening Gypsum Canyon Wilderness in November 2023 took years to accomplish and involved OC Parks staff from many divisions working together to bring this natural space to the public. Located within OC Parks' Irvine Ranch Open Space, the 500-acre area has seven multi-use trails spanning 6 miles waiting to be explored. Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features two lookout points that offer sweeping views of nearby canyons and unique rock formations, and its protected and preserved habitat allows for many plants and animals to thrive. Since opening, the public has been eager to see this beautiful outdoor space in Orange County. Designing and reestablishing the trail systems was no small task and employees throughout various divisions of OC Parks worked together to develop safe, scenic and sustainable trails while protecting precious habitat.

Program Accomplishments

A large portion of the work involved collaboration between OC Parks' Irvine Ranch Open Space staff, Planning and Design staff and Natural Resources staff to survey the area, find key points of interest and identify sensitive plant species which helped develop user-friendly trails with minimal environmental impact. Special care and consideration were taken to restore the natural habitat by planting native species.

OC Parks' remarkable team collaboration at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness expands access to outdoor recreation opportunities in the County while still protecting and preserving natural spaces. The area allows visitors of all ages to connect with nature through engaging activities and beautiful scenery. Visit ocparks.com for a list of upcoming programs at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness. Advance registration is required. We hope to see you on the trails!

Worked collaboratively with OC Public Works, California State Parks and City of Dana Point to place 45,000 cubic yards of sand at Capistrano Beach and Doheny State Beach to combat coastal erosion.

Opened two new sites in the Irvine Ranch Open Space – Saddleback Wilderness and Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, totaling nearly 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding

Did you know that the InterpretiveCenter at Ralph B. Clark Regional Park is home to fossils up to 80 million years old?

OC Public Libraries

OC Public Libraries (OCPL) staff creates dynamic community hubs across the county, significantly enhancing the quality of life provided to residents Staff foster education by offering diverse resources, including books, e-books, and online databases, supporting lifelong learning and literacy. Staff present various educational programs, workshops, and events catering to different age groups and interests. The library provides free internet access, computers, and tech assistance, bridging the digital divide and enabling residents to engage with the increasingly digital world. This increases digital literacy and empowers individuals with essential skills for the 21st century. The library is a cultural and social nexus with staff hosting lectures and community gatherings that celebrate the rich diversity of Orange County. This promotes cultural awareness, unity, and a sense of belonging within the community.

OCPL also serves as an economic resource by offering job search assistance and resume-building workshops. Staff play a vital role in empowering individuals with the tools needed to succeed in their careers and contribute to the local economy. Inclusivity is a key aspect, as the library staff strives to cater to the needs of all community members. Specialized services for children, teens, seniors, and individuals with disabilities create an inclusive environment that meets the unique requirements of diverse populations OCPL is a multifaceted institution, positively impacting education, technology access, cultural enrichment, and social cohesion. Through its comprehensive and inclusive approach, the library staff enhance the overall quality of services provided to the community, making it an indispensable asset for Orange County residents.

Did you know that in 1974 h d l di

Services Administrative

Administrative Services is comprised of a variety of units that provide support services to the OCCR Programs. The Business Office, Finance, Procurement, Strategic Operations & Professional Standards, Accounting, HR, and IT work collaboratively across administrative units and with our Program partners to identify approaches that will help connect the people of our community to our resources most effectively. Some examples of recent cross-collaboration include: Procurement and IT working together to purchase and activate 103 new multi-function printers across OCCR;

Accounting and the Business Office joining efforts to launch OC METER, the new County reimbursement software system, and tailor it to OCCR’s needs; and Administrative staff members assisting OC Animal Care during the Tustin Hangar fire incident Administrative Services understands the value of teamwork and, as we get further into 2024, we continue to seek opportunities to fully utilize our teams’ talents and expertise while working synergistically with Programs to integrate County process more seamlessly into public service delivery

ProgramAccomplishments

OCCR achieved 99.9% completion for Cybersecurity Awareness Training.

Payroll is projected to audit and upload over 9,000 timesheets

Facilities led Fountain Valley and Heritage Park Libraries water & mold remediation and repairs

Four legislative proposals were drafted by Legislative Affairs (SOPS), two of which were submitted to CEO Legislative Affairs for consideration

Finance submitted nineteen mid-year budget adjustments to the CEO’s office.

HR completed 37 job offers

Purchasing completed RFP for Phase 2 Mile Square Park Construction.

InformationTechnology Procurement StrategicOperations& ProfessionalStandards

Accounting

& STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING

OC Community Resources (OCCR) has taken a significant stride towards fostering effective leadership within the Department by introducing a forward-looking Leadership Development Training Program. This initiative, supported by the County Supervisor Toolbox program, was launched in July 2023 with its inaugural cohort, further emphasizing OCCR's commitment to professional growth and organizational excellence.

Currently the program is in full swing with three concurrent cohorts, carefully curated to include a diverse mix of managers, that are actively engaged in this innovative learning experience that spans six months. Supervisor Toolbox offers the following modules:

1-on-1s: Identifies how to enhance team member relationships, team dynamic, and understanding of business operations

Difficult Conversations: Outlines which conversations to initiate and how to prepare for and navigate difficult conversations.

Delegating: Identifies which tasks to delegate, sets expectations for delegated tasks, and defines follow through actions.

Feedback: Clarifies how to give, receive, and ask for feedback and create a positive feedback culture.

Meeting: Boosts meeting approach through enhancing communication and collaboration skills through more effective meeting management

Supervisor Toolbox for OCCR Leaders Training Program is poised to become a beacon of success, fostering a culture of leadership excellence within OCCR.

SUPERVISOR TOOLBOX

for

OCCR LEADERS

Participants

Eliseo Gillamac, OCCR Admin Services

Isela Martinez, OCCR Admin Services

Desiree Gonzalez, OC Community Services

Jannette Revilla, OC Community Services

Liza Taylor, OC Housing & Community Development

Derrick Ankerstar, OC Parks

Brian Beach, OC Parks

James Dinwiddie III, OC Parks

Linda Bazmi, OC Parks

Griselda Castillo, OC Parks

Fernando Lurati, OC Parks

James McKinnon, OC Parks

Mariana Perez-Seda, OC Parks

Tuan Richardson, OC Parks

Laura Hearn, OC Public Libraries

Danilo Serranilla, OC Public Libraries

Julia Reardon, OC Public Libraries

Casey Sargent, OC Public Libraries

Melanie Shay, OC Public Libraries

Facilitators

Matthew Le, Manager OCCR Staff Development & Training

Steven Tran, Staff Development Specialist OCCR Staff Development & Training

With each cohort spanning a duration of six months, participants travel together on a journey of discovery, skill enrichment, and a sense of cohesiveness among their group As one member has eloquently expressed:

In addition to the actual course material, one of the most beneficial aspects of this program was the ability to meet as a cohort and have the in-person meetings, (which) allowed us to hear and discuss how we applied the tools and skills we learned as well as strengthened the camaraderie amongst the various program staff

-James Dinwiddie III

Cohort 1 Graduates

July 12, 2023 - February 21, 2024

erviceS

wardsA

July 1, 2023 - February 29, 2024

35

25

Jim Williams, OC Parks

James Hahn, OCHCD

Veronica Yost, OCAC

Paul Hernandez, OCPL

Jennifer Gasset, OCPL

Melissa Dolby, OCPL

Carmen Ricker, OCPL

Olga Martinez, OCPL

David Amaro, OC Parks

20

15

Gilda Ragsdale, OC Parks

Eliodoro Urzua, OC Parks

Susan Brodeur, OC Parks

Laura Hearn, OCPL

Julissa Lazcano, OCCS

Rebecca Braun, OCPL

Samantha Smith, OCPL

Ramiro Estrada, OC Parks

Sean Bengtson, OC Parks

Karen Granillo, OCHCD

10

5

Jonathan Tran, OCHCD

Jamie Botts, OCHCD

Phu Nguyen, OCHCD

Linda Ngo, OCHCD

Christina Lai, Admin Services

Lindsey Hewey, OCAC

Tammy Osborn, OCAC 30

Jose Suarez, OCAC

Mechelle Perez, OCCS

Imelda Jimenez, OCCS

Eric Ensley, OCCS

Ariel Flores, OCCS

Jocelyn Gaspar, OCCS

Erica Turpin, OCHCD

Jeremy Tran, OCHCD

Alexandrina Mota, OCHCD

Nathan Taxel, OC Parks

Jason Arthur, OC Parks

Lori Artzner, OCPL

Christina Diaz, OCCS

Jesus Castro, OC Parks

Carmen Giron, Admin Services

Lisa McNeil, OCPL

Elizabeth Tran, OCPL

Jessica Rodriguez, OCPL

Darlene Tapia, Admin Services

Man Ho, OCHCD

Richard Holland, OC Parks

Jose Torres, OCAC

Megan Tavallodi, OCAC

Elizabeth Nguyen, OCHCD

Peggy Herrera, OCHCD

Benjamin Rogers, OC Parks

Kerry Lambert, OC Parks

Lori Sampson, OCPL

Kristin Whipple, OCPL

Jennifer Medina, OCPL

Jonathan Bureau, OC Parks

Samantha Ferguson, OC Parks

Daniel Crouch, OC Parks

Anthony Martinez, OC Parks

Julio Rivera Campos, OC Parks

Sarah Hoemke, OC Parks

Alisa Flint, OC Parks

Matthew Major, OC Parks

Jeromy French, OC Parks

Christopher McGriff, OC Parks

Adam Perez, OC Parks

Andrew Welch-Horowitz, OC Parks

Frankie Gonzales, OCHCD

Christopher Le, OCCS

Alan Young, Admin Services

Scarlet Maman, Admin Services

Michelle Ng, Admin Services

Mary Beth Anderson, Admin Services

Patricia Escobar, OC Parks

Anthony Sandoval, OC Parks

Rodolfo Perez, OC Parks

Raul Juarez, OCPL

Shannon Berg, OCPL

Azita Mesbah, OCPL

Karen Qaiser, OCPL

Michele Pisa-Jones, OCPL

Patricia Martin, OCPL

Mary Lueras, OCPL

MENTION HONORABLE

We would like to recognize James Hahn for his 35 years of service with the County of Orange and thank him for his dedication, hard work, and commitment to serving the community. Throughout his 35 years with the County of Orange, James has consistently shown his passion for his work and his unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. His positive attitude, leadership skills, and willingness to go above and beyond have not gone unnoticed. James has truly made a lasting impact on the organization and the people he has worked with. We are grateful for his years of service and wish him all the best in his future endeavors!

CCR

Safety

Meet the team!

AMessagefromyourSafetyTeam

As we welcome the beautiful spring season, it's essential to keep safety in mind as we enjoy the warmer weather and outdoor activities. Here are some important tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe this spring:

OutdoorSafety

Whether you ' re gardening, hiking, or simply enjoying a walk in the park, remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and be mindful of any potential hazards like uneven terrain or poisonous plants.

OutdoorGrillingSafety

If you ' re firing up the grill for outdoor cooking, practice safe grilling by keeping the grill away from structures and combustible materials, never leaving it unattended, and ensuring proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

HomeMaintenance

Check your home for any winter-related damage and address it promptly to prevent further issues. This includes inspecting your roof, sidewalks, and gutters for any signs of damage.

SpringCleaning

Spring is a perfect time for deep cleaning and decluttering Remember to handle cleaning products with care, keep them out of reach of children and pets, and ensure proper ventilation while using them

WaterSafety

As temperatures rise, many of us will be drawn to pools, lakes, and beaches for recreational activities Always supervise children, wear life jackets when boating, and be mindful of water currents and hazards to prevent accidents.

UpcomingEvents

March marks National Ladder Safety Month, emphasizing the importance of ladder safety in preventing accidents and injuries. Here's a brief overview:

Know Your Ladders: Understand types and uses.

Inspect Before Use: Check for damage.

Secure Placement: Ensure stability.

Maintain Three-Point Contact: When climbing

Use Proper Technique: Face the ladder, and avoid overreaching.

Don't Overload: Follow weight capacity.

Store Safely: Keep away from moisture and store securely.

By following these spring safety tips, you can enjoy all that the season has to offer while keeping yourself and your family safe. Here's to a happy and healthy spring ahead!

AndyDiep RonMilone JoshuaFarris

Safety Manager Safety Analyst Safety Specialist