CFS Update: Join us May 24 to DEMAND IMMEDIATE CHANGE

Dear OCEA member, 

On December 15, 2021, OCEA sent a letter and a series of demands to Agency Director Debra Baetz. The letter and demands were intended to bring solutions to long-standing issues facing workers in CFS. The overall theme of our demands was to bring dignity, respect, and support to the workers who serve our most vulnerable residents.

We have seen incremental change in the 5 months since we have been escalating these demands. However, the changes have not been enough. For the decision makers in this County to take your issues seriously, we need to act!

On May 24, OCEA staff and leaders will be attending the OC Board of Supervisors meeting to DEMAND IMMEDIATE CHANGE!

The County of Orange is governed by a five-person Board. These elected officials make decisions relating to all County functions, which includes all County agencies.

While specific change is needed in each program, we know the most critical issues facing workers in CFS are:

1) CFS’ culture that fails to focus on workers and their needs
2) Unreasonable and unsustainable caseloads
3) Insufficient staffing levels
4) Lack of emotional support for workers who deal with secondary trauma

TO COMMUNICATE THIS MESSAGE IMPACTFULLY WE NEED YOU.

We need workers to stand-up and speak at the Board meeting. If you are unable or unwilling to speak at the Board meeting, we need to hear your stories.

To that end, we are asking workers to complete a brief survey. In the survey, we will gauge who is willing to speak at the Board of Supervisors meeting. We will also gather stories about the core demands listed above—which OCEA staff and other workplace leaders can read on your behalf at the meeting.

You can complete the survey HERE.

Board of Supervisors Meeting
Tuesday, May 24
Meeting start: 9:30 a.m.
Pre-Meet/Park at OCEA at OCEA at 8 a.m.
Talking Points/Training Provided!

The union movement was built by working people who stood up for their rights. OCEA stands proudly in this tradition and will hold our County accountable for the fair treatment of its workers. Please join us!

In Solidarity,

Team OCEA

Publication Date: May 11, 2022