Commission on Children and Youth meeting: member introductions, funding notices and Resilient Tennessee update

The Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth opened a segment of the meeting for member introductions and brief updates from local organizations and state agencies. Participants included representatives from EPIC GIRL, the Cheatham County Coalition, Regional Children and Youth, ETSU, Volunteer Behavioral Health, and others who described recent projects and upcoming events.

Melissa McGee, who identified herself as working with the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth and overseeing Resilient Tennessee, reviewed the history of Building Strong Brains (an initiative launched under Governor Haslam) and said TCCY had trained more than 1,400 people as trainers across the state. McGee explained that Building Strong Brains funding moved from non‑recurring to recurring appropriations in the past and that the program has transitioned toward a broader Resilient Tennessee focus emphasizing state support for locally led efforts and system infrastructure rather than statewide direction.

Julie Rotella, assistant commissioner for administration at the Department of Children’s Services (DCS), reported on a recent two‑day mindfulness retreat for frontline DCS staff. Dana Maria of the Tennessee Office of Criminal Justice Programs noted a Tennessee Strong Family solicitation currently posted on the office website. Rob Burke announced a Young Child Wellness Council meeting scheduled for Dec. 14 (hybrid). Attendees were encouraged to share contact information and take part in volunteer or leadership roles for work groups with current vacancies (policy collaborative co‑chair and parent/community engagement co‑chair). The meeting paused for lunch and regrouped later in the day.