The 2023-24 year was filled with great promise and opportunity at The William George Agency. This can be credited to many things: our dedicated staff, the youth and families we serve and their willingness to engage in the therapeutic process, and to the continued support from community members like you.
Among the top highlights of the year, WGA received high marks from the Voluntary Agency Review (VAR). The VAR is conducted every three years among New York’s child welfare providers by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), which licenses our programs. OCFS staff assess practices and compliance regarding the youth and family services we provide by reviewing case records, campus inspections, interviews with youth, families, and staff. I’m proud to report that WGA received a 93 out of 100.
Another achievement was our effort to reduce the turnover rate of residential direct care workers. A pilot program led by our Director of Training and Managerial Services was launched to engage new staff more regularly during the first few months of employment. Initial analysis revealed a nearly 30% reduction in staff turnover after the program began. Retaining a highly skilled and dedicated staff remains a challenge industry-wide and a crucial focus for us to maintain the continuity and quality of care.
Other highlights in the report include a campus pond reclamation project, the renewal of an agriculture and farming program, and exciting campuswide improvements thanks to old and new funding partners.
In gratitude for your support,
Helen M. Hulings
Executive Director