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2 | RIVERSIDE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES

Director’s Message Charity Douglas

I am pleased to introduce the centennial edition of the DPSS Annual Report. This report celebrates our department’s 100-year journey from its founding on July 9, 1923, through Fiscal Year 2023/24 when we served nearly 1.2 million children, adults and seniors in Riverside County. The stories in these pages are not just about the accomplishments of our 4,800-member workforce today, but the enduring impact our cumulative contributions have made to individual lives and communities over many generations. Not often do we find ourselves crossing a bridge from one century to the next as DPSS has done this year. I am honored to be here now, alongside a dedicated and dynamic workforce that continues building on our department’s long legacy of service to vulnerable people and communities. As DPSS embarks upon its next century of service, we do so with a brand new five-year strategic plan in hand and a bold new vision for “Thriving communities where pathways to success are accessible to all, ensuring safety and prosperity.” Our vision reflects the strong bonds we are forging with local families and community partners to inspire equitable and accessible services that elevate the health and well-being of all Riverside County residents. I am extremely proud to lead the extraordinary DPSS team into the next 100 years, and to be part of a community that values the safety and stability our social service professionals bring to so many of our neighbors. When one life is strengthened, a community is made stronger. I truly believe the year ahead holds tremendous opportunities for growth and transformation in the way we deliver services and connect with our communities. Thank you to the many partners and stakeholders who are part of our journey and for helping DPSS write the next chapter of excellence in its service to Riverside County. A New Vision for the Next Century of Service

Charity Douglas

I am honored to be here, now, alongside a dedicated and dynamic workforce that continues building on our department’s long legacy of service to vulnerable people and communities.