Randy Neff Assumes Permanent Role as Senior VP of EMPOWER

We’re excited to share some important news with you regarding leadership within EMPOWER. After serving effectively in an interim capacity, Randy Neff has been selected as the permanent Senior Vice President for EMPOWER.

Randy has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing our mission to strengthen families in the Metroplex East Region. He brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to EMPOWER, which will continue to drive our efforts forward.

During the past several months, he has immersed himself in the Metroplex East Region, building strong community relationships and managing ongoing program startup. His deep understanding of our mission and strategic vision will be invaluable as he transitions into this permanent role.

We are confident that under Randy's leadership, EMPOWER will continue to have a positive impact on local children and families. We are grateful for his dedication and look forward to his continued contributions.

If you have any questions about our current leadership structure, please check out our leadership page here. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership!

Shirley Dwyer

Chief Executive Officer, Texas Family Initiative

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Jonathan's Place has partnered with EMPOWER, a North Texas child welfare collaborative, to provide comprehensive support for foster children and families. Since 1991, Jonathan's Place has offered a safe haven, loving homes and brighter futures to over 7,000 abused and neglected children, expanding over 33 years to include a full continuum of care programs.

The programs include foster care, adoption services, an emergency shelter and specialized support. These specialized services feature the Girls Residential Therapeutic Program for trauma survivors, the RESET Emergency Shelter for sex trafficking survivors, the Wesley Inn Maternity Program and a transitional living program for young adults.

In FY24 alone, Jonathan's Place served 268 children across its eight programs, focusing on trauma-informed care and community initiatives through the collaboration with EMPOWER.

Introducing Texas Child-Centered Care (T3C)

Texas Child-Centered Care (T3C) is a new approach designed to strengthen the foster care system in Texas. T3C focuses on making sure each child receives the right care based on their individual needs. The model offers comprehensive service packages and add-on services designed to ensure children are matched with the appropriate level of support tailored to their unique needs.

T3C helps keep children in stable environments and ensures they receive the services they need. A special evaluation called the CANS 3.0 Assessment helps decide what level of care is best for each child.

We’re excited to work with providers to ensure they are ready to offer these new services. This approach will give Texas foster children a better chance at success, both now and in the future. To learn more about T3C, visit DFPS - How does T3C Work?.

Stacy Grant

Permanency Case Manager

“I want to take a moment to recognize Stacy for the incredible work she does every day. Her dedication, positive attitude and commitment to her role are truly inspiring. Stacy is ALWAYS advocating for her kids and consistently goes above and beyond to meet—often exceed—expectations. She is an essential part of our team, and I can't thank her enough for the real difference she's making,” said Anika R. Jones, EMPOWER Director of Permanency Services.

Tieshah Hawkins

Permanency Supervisor

“Tieshah has shown incredible resilience and dedication in her role as a supervisor. She’s embraced the challenges of her position with a positive outlook, always striving to learn and grow. Tieshah has been instrumental in building a positive work culture, fostering trust, credibility and confidence within her team. Her commitment to her team's success and to her own development is truly inspiring,” said Keshaun A. Vinson, EMPOWER Director of Permanency Services.

Community Engagement Specialists Shayla Henderson Thomas and Ty Holloway represented our organization at the Hispanic Heritage Festival at the Arboretum. They had the chance to connect with prospective foster families, gathering valuable contact information for future outreach. Additionally, Shayla and Ty engaged with various resources and nonprofit organizations, expanding our network and opportunities for collaboration. It was a successful day of community connection and advocacy for foster care!

Celebrating The Martinez Family!🎊

Adoption Day

During November, EMPOWER is celebrating National Adoption Month and the transformative role adoption can play in the journey of so many families. All month long, in conjunction with community partners, EMPOWER is finalizing many adoptions and holding celebrations throughout November. Recently, the Martinez Family celebrated National Adoption Month by adopting five children in Dallas County (pictured above).

Exciting day with our EMPOWER staff at the Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Training! This hands-on training helps caregivers understand different attachment styles, develop thoughtful and responsive care techniques and find strategies to support healthy attachments. Together, we’re empowering families and fostering growth!

EMPOWER in the News

EMPOWER is hosting a luggage drive for children in foster care! Read the full story to find out how you can help.