The Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth (OCCY) convened on February 1, 2024, to discuss significant updates regarding the Resilient Oklahoma initiative, aimed at enhancing the well-being of families and children across the state. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts of various state agencies and community organizations to address systemic issues affecting children's behavioral health and overall family stability.

The session began with an overview of the Children's State Advisory Work Group, which has evolved from its original focus on behavioral health to encompass a broader vision of family well-being. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of various factors impacting children's lives. The group, which includes parents, state agency representatives, and community organizations, has been meeting regularly to refine its mission and deliverables.

A key discussion point was the integration of two previously separate initiatives: the Trauma Informed Care work group and the Thriving Families Safer Children initiative. By merging these efforts under the Resilient Oklahoma Movement, the group aims to streamline resources and enhance service delivery to families in need. The initiative emphasizes equitable access to support services and aims to prevent child abuse and neglect while addressing the impacts of trauma.

The meeting also underscored the importance of community engagement and collaboration among agencies. The Resilient Oklahoma team is working on developing a website that will serve as a central hub for resources and information, facilitating better communication between state agencies and local communities. This platform is expected to launch within the next couple of months, providing a space for community members to voice their needs and access support.

Financial collaboration among state agencies was another highlight, with nearly half a million dollars allocated to support the initiative's goals. This funding reflects a commitment to true collaboration and resource sharing among agencies, which is crucial for the success of the Resilient Oklahoma Movement.

As the meeting concluded, members expressed optimism about the future of the initiative and the potential for meaningful change in the lives of Oklahoma families. The OCCY plans to continue its efforts to align strategies across systems and enhance community capacity, ensuring that every family has access to the support they need to thrive. The next steps involve further engagement with state agencies and community partners to refine strategies and implement the planned deliverables.