In this Coffee Break Podcast episode, host Marquese Howard interviews Nicole Windom-Hurd, Director of Riverside County Child Support Services, about the department's initiatives and future plans. The discussion highlights several key programs, including the Fatherhood Initiative, which provides support and resources to fathers, and the expansion of services through integrated service delivery across multiple county departments. The department is focused on serving both parents equally and offers various services including genetic testing, family law assistance, and workshops for both mothers and fathers. Looking ahead to 2025, the department aims to improve efficiencies in service delivery and expand their motherhood workshop program. The episode emphasizes that services are available to all income levels and can be accessed through multiple channels including their website, in-person visits, and live chat features.
In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, host Marquese Howard, Marketing Media and Communications Coordinator for Riverside County Child Support Services, discusses significant legal updates with Elizabeth Lawrence, Chief Deputy Attorney for Riverside County Child Support Services. Key changes for 2024 include extended enforcement periods for child support orders post-incarceration, new provisions allowing former cash aid recipients to receive collected arrears, and modifications to the child support guideline calculator affecting support amounts based on income. The episode also previews upcoming changes for 2025 and 2026, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about child support developments.
In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, host Marquese Howard engages Riverside County Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez in a discussion about his initiatives in Riverside County District 5. Gutierrez shares his background as a former mayor and teacher, and outlines his comprehensive approach to tackling homelessness, job creation, and housing improvements. Key programs highlighted include the "Homeless to Work" initiative and the "Pruitt Program" for home renovations. The episode also emphasizes youth engagement and community events. Supervisor Gutierrez's personal experiences and dedication to community service underscore his commitment to enhancing residents' lives through effective governance and community involvement.
In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, host Marquese Howard discusses Child Support Awareness Month, emphasizing its importance and the role of community partnerships. Dan from Food for Less shares his positive experiences participating in events, highlighting employee engagement and community impact. Monica Santana from Community Action Partnership of Riverside County discusses providing school supplies and other support programs. Regina Cruise from Child Support Services explains the goals of the awareness month and the importance of connecting families with resources. The speakers reflect on the success of their collaborative efforts and share plans for future community events throughout the month of August.
In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, host Marquese Howard interviews Commissioner Tanguler Gray from the Federal Office of Child Support Services. Commissioner Gray discusses her journey from Georgia, to her current role, emphasizing her vision for child support services centered on "engagement" through people, processes, and performance. She highlights key initiatives, including regulatory changes for tribal communities. The episode also focuses on engaging fathers in child support programs and the significance of Child Support Awareness Month, while Commissioner Gray shares her personal goals for work-life balance. Chapters Introduction to the Podcast [00:00:00] # Podcast TimestampsMarquise Howard welcomes listeners and introduces Commissioner Tangela Gray. Commissioner Gray's Background [00:00:47] Commissioner Gray shares her journey and experience leading to her current role. Key Initiatives Since December 2021 [00:03:21] Discussion on key initiatives and the vision of engagement in child support services. Future Vision Beyond 2024 [00:05:35] Gray discusses future initiatives and foundational changes for child support services. Fatherhood Engagement Plans [00:09:47] Plans to enhance fatherhood engagement through various initiatives and programs. National Fatherhood Summit Announcement [00:15:33] Details about the upcoming National Fatherhood Summit in August 2023. Child Support Awareness Month [00:16:08] Importance of August as Child Support Awareness Month and its historical significance. Community Engagement Activities [00:19:21] Discussion on local outreach efforts for Child Support Awareness Month in Riverside County. Future Professional Goals by 2025 [00:21:51] Gray shares her goals related to a leadership development program ending in 2025. Personal Goals by 2025 [00:24:12] Gray expresses her desire for a more balanced lifestyle and self-care. Contact Information for Further Inquiries [00:25:22] Gray provides contact details for listeners to reach her office for more information
In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Marquese Howard, the Marketing, Media, and Communications Coordinator, announces exciting changes for the upcoming season, including multiple hosts and subject matter experts. Key updates on child support services are discussed, such as enhancements to the Debt Reduction Program, Guideline Calculations, and various legal procedures. Marquese also introduces a new video format for the podcast and highlights August as Child Support Awareness Month. On August 10th, RivCoDCSS will host a Family Support Resource Fair, featuring a backpack giveaway, community vendors, health professionals, job opportunities, and family activities. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and stay tuned for more updates.
Visit: http://www.RivCoDCSS.com for more information.
Segments
Introduction of Changes [00:00:09] Marquese introduces exciting changes for the podcast, including multiple hosts and updates on child support services.
Updates on Child Support Services [00:00:19] Discussion of debt reduction programs, legal procedures, and changes to Guideline Calculations for child support orders.
New Video Format [00:00:19] Introduction of a new video format to enhance viewer engagement and experience during the podcast.
Child Support Awareness Month [00:00:19] August is highlighted as Child Support Awareness Month, with Acts of Support and community resources shared.
Backpack and School Resource Event [00:01:19] Announcement of an event on August 10th featuring backpacks, school supplies, and community assistance.
Onsite Assistance at Events [00:02:26] Details about onsite case assistance for child support inquiries at events, enhancing customer service.
Virtual Connection Options [00:02:26] Information on virtual appointments and LiveChat options for connecting with child support specialists.
Podcast Subscription Reminder [00:02:26] Encouragement to subscribe to the podcast, with a preview of the upcoming Season 5 debut.
About the Guest(s):
Elizabeth Lawrence is the Chief Attorney at Riverside County Child Support Services. With years of experience in the field, she is well-versed in child support enforcement and the legal aspects of the child support system. Elizabeth is dedicated to ensuring that children and families receive the financial and medical support they are entitled to through court-ordered child support.
In this episode of Coffee Break, Nathan Hartel, the host, is joined by Elizabeth Lawrence, the Chief Attorney at Riverside County Child Support Services. They discuss child support enforcement and the various actions taken by the child support agency to secure court-ordered payments. Elizabeth emphasizes that these enforcement actions are not taken lightly and are required by federal or state law. They also address the impact of these actions on customers and the importance of communication with the agency.
Key topics covered in this episode include automated enforcement actions such as income withholding orders, tax intercepts, and license suspensions. They also discuss discretionary actions like civil contempt and judgment debtor exams. Elizabeth highlights the agency's goal of working with customers to reach a resolution and bring their cases into compliance. They also address the sensitive nature of these actions and the agency's understanding of the impact on families.
Thank you for listening to this episode of the Riverside County Child Support Services Coffee Break Podcast. For more information and to stay updated on future episodes, visit our website and contact us.
Contact Riverside County Child Support Services: 866-901-3212 or RivCoDCSS.com
Join us for a special interview with Riverside County's Veterans Services Director, Grant Gautsche, who will share with us the various services available to our Veterans. Also, hear from one of our very own Catherine Garcia who is currently in the armed services and is part of our Child Support Staff assisting our customers. Enjoy this Coffee Break and if you know a Veteran let them know We Are Here to Help!
Season 3 Episode 10
Welcome to Season 3 Episode 10 of Riverside County Department of Child Support Services Coffee Break Podcast with our Host Nathan Hartel, Deputy Director of Programs and Operations season finality. (0.50) a review of episode 1. (1.41) Nathan discusses the theme, Intersections and what does this mean. (2.21) Review of Season 3 and review of our Community Partners and the resources they offer. ( 3:35) Nathan reviews our new web page, and career and job resources. (4:17) Nathan shares about his interview with First5 Riverside, and the services they provide including the Family Resource Centers and the youth programs. (5:25) Nathan hopes that as you listen to the recap of these interviews you can go back and listen to them again or if you missed one to pick up a nugget of information. (5:38) Nathan also interviewed DPSS ( Department of Public Social Services) and they shared some resources for self-sufficiency, also that Child Support Participants are not exempt from their services. (6:37) Episode 5 is covered and the practical aspects of the child support program talking about visitation, custody, and timeshare and how these impact the child support obligation. Stipulations and modifications were also covered. (7:53) Episode 6 with Sahar Andrade and learning regarding the topic of Diversity, Unconscious Bias and Inclusion, how we treat our customers, and the importance of respecting one another. (8:26) Episode 7 and Supervisor Chuck Washington, and the role Supervisors play and his passion for public service, also covering new library openings. (9:43) Episode 8 Riverside County Office of Education, and the importance of literacy by 5th-grade initiative and reading to learn. Dr. Molly shared many examples of what parents can do to get kids excited about reading. (10:20) Most recent episode on Child Support Awareness Month, and highlighting the importance of the services we provide. Nathan announces season 4 coming this Fall.
(0:49) Introducing special guest Nicole Darracq, Director of the Office of Communication and Public Affairs with the California Child Support Services, and Marquese Howard Marketing, Media, Communications Coordinator from Riverside County Child Support Services. (1:17) Child Support Awareness Month (CSAM) is recognized during the month of August. (1:24) CSAM was proclaimed to be Child Support Awareness Month by then-President Bill Clinton on August 7th, 1995. (1:29) President Clinton wrote a special proclamation on why proclamation was special to him and his presidency at the time. (2:42) Nathan Hartel, Deputy Director, discusses how President Clinton mentions the importance of the state and local government developing innovative approaches to help families cope with child support issues. (3:10) Nathan refers to language that was used in the proclamation at the time “Deadbeat Dads”. (3:48) What child support means to Nicole Darracq at the Federal and State level. (5:20) Nicole gives insight on how child support is not supposed to protect and defend one parent over another but encourage parents to co-parent. (6:29) Child support Awareness Month is not just specific to California, but a nationwide recognition. (6:32) Nicole discussed how Child Support Awareness gets throughout the nation. (15:23) Marquese discusses events Riverside County has planned for August. (15:58) Open Saturday, August 14th for parents who can’t come to the office during the week. (16:40) Marques, talks about the new Debt Reduction Program airing on August 19th. (17:12) August 26th Employer Workshop. (18:44) Marquese discusses Riverside County's new mobile outreach van in the community. (19:33) “Acts of Support” from Riverside County Department of Child Support to the public. (20:21) Nicole's last remarks “It’s about the children” (21:36) Marquese last remarks for parents to please reach out to us “We are here for you”.
(0:07) Introduction with Nathan Hartel (host) Deputy Director of Child Support Services. (0:57) Nathan gives an outline of Dr. Molly McCabe's background. (2:15) Nathan discusses to primary things Child Support Services does as part of a caseload 1 We establish court orders for child support and medical support,2nd we enforce orders. (4:29) Dr. McCabe discusses how her passion is driven by her family background she explains how her own father had a difficult childhood, but because he develops strong literacy skills he was able to pursue the life he wanted to live and that’s what drove Dr. McCabe and all her work. (5:44) Nathan goes into as an agency how Child Support Services values the role parents play and how they strive to do their best. (7:16) Dr. Molly McCabe explains that ultimately the goal of the initiative for every single child in Riverside county has strong literacy skills develop by the end of 5th grade. (7:27) Defining literacy as the ability to read, write, speak, listen, and represent your thinking/ideas. (9:00) Dr. McCabe gives her top 5 examples of what families can do to support literacy development in children. 1) Create a love of reading, (11:34) 2nd example Family conversations (speaking & listening) (16:07) 3rd example Let them learn about things that they are curious about. (15:10) Nathans gives an example of how you can reinforce reading with your own children. (19:50) Dr. Molly talks about her 4th example of support literacy with children “find lots opportunities within your natural setting”, work on all literacy skills have routines (20:08) Using TV shows and movies to develop literacy (21:12) work on comprehension to develop literacy (23:28) 5th example of developing literacy skills Attend family literacy events and reach out to local libraries. (24:21) Nathan speaks on our 3 brand-new libraries in the county French Valley, Menifee, Desert Hot Springs. (25:58) What to do if your child’s teacher says your child is behind. (27:30) Dr. Molly McCabe strongly suggests you ask for resources that the district and the schools have available to the parent. (28:00) If you have young children that are still learning to read use these resources (28:53) If you have older children you can use these resources to help with literacy. (30:57) Dr. McCabe says, “Don’t try and do too much”. (31:56) How to respond to a child that just doesn’t like to read. (33:28)” Give incentives” sometimes children just need a little incentive to engage. (35:38) Nathan shares the families we serve at Child Support Services. (36:44) Dr. Molly McCabe explains the important role our families play with their children in literacy. (29:02) Dr. Molly gives closing remarks with great resources for families on the Riverside County Office of Education web page. (39:36) Follow RCOE on social media Twitter: @rcoe, Instagram: riverside_coe. (40:36) How you request services and open a new case with Child Support Services.
Welcome to Season 3 Episode 7 of Riverside County Department of Child Support Services Coffee Break Podcast with our Host Nathan Hartel, Deputy Director of Programs and Operations “all things related to child support and more”. Enjoy this episode with our Special Guest Supervisor Chuck Washington from the 3rd District of Riverside County. Supervisor Washington will discuss what is going on in District 3, Riverside County, what is his role, and how he got to where he is today. This episode is a "Double Espresso Shot”, just a little bit longer than a single espresso shot, and packing an even greater punch, it is rich, and it is definitely full! Don't miss out on this exciting episode!
Welcome to RivCoDCSS Season 3 Episode 6 Coffee Break Podcast. Diversity, Unconscious Bias, and Inclusion – a Conversation between RivCoDCSS and Sahar Andrade with Host Nathan Hartel, Deputy Director of Programs and Operations.
Welcome to RivCoDCSS Season 3 Episode 5 Coffee Break Podcast and “all things child support” with Host Nathan Hartel, Deputy Director of Programs and Operations. Our Special Guest today is Paola Castro, Lead Deputy Child Support Attorney, IV-S, and Family Law Facilitators, from the Riverside County Superior Court. The focus of this podcast is timeshare and custody. We will hear about what is the true connection between, custody, visitation, and timeshare in the world of Child Support. You don't want to miss this podcast, rich and frothy with key details about one of the most frequently asked topics. So sit back! grab your coffee or favorite drink and enjoy this coffee break podcast.
(1:50) Introduction of our Special Guest today is Paola Castro, Child Support Attorney, IV-S. (3:02) Paola is excited to discuss this topic and the legal process around Timeshare. (3:57) What really is the connection to custody, visitation, and timeshare to the world of Child Support? (4:39) Paola answers this important question and explains the differences of the legal terms involved. (6:00) One of the common questions or concerns of a client may be what is stated in a custody agreement may not be what actually is occurring? (6:58) Paola discusses how this situation would impact the child support calculation. (9:04) Is participation from both parties crucial? (9:51) Paola provides a better understanding as to why it is crucial both parties participate. (10:39) Clarification is given between the relationship of the child support calculation and custody or/and visitation court order. (11:30) An explanation of the main items that go into the calculation and how it influences child support. (16:45) There are so many different scenarios for timeshare/co-parenting, how is it calculated? (17:42) Paola explains and clarifies this question. (20:56) What if the parents don’t agree on the timeshare? Where and how are the discrepancies dealt with? (21:41) Paola goes through answers to these questions. (24:59) Best way to keep track of your timeshare/co-parenting details and filing the documents in court. (28:41) Don’t forget to use a great resource available – Riverside Superior Court Self-Help Center, aka FLAC. Distinguishing the responsibility and differences of all the legal representation involved. (32:05) Information on our Virtual Workshop “We are here to help” Timeshare Calculator. (32:48) Last words of advice from Paola on this topic. (32:37) Nathan’s RivCoDCSS closing comments. (34:57) Couple of reminders; subscribe to our podcast: available on a variety of platforms including, Spotify, anchor FM, apple podcast platform, and contact us at RivCoDCSS.com. Upcoming event – Legal day June 12, 2021.
RivCoDCSS INFO:
www.RivCoDCSS.com
866-901-3212
FLAC INFO:
951-274-4499 OR 760-393-2163
www.riverside.courts.ca.gov/appointments/
Welcome to RivCoDCSS Season 3 Episode 4 Coffee Break Podcast and “all things child support” with Host Nathan Hartel, Deputy Director of Programs and Operations. (2:10) Special Guest today is Marivel Castaneda, Sr. Program Specialist and Alisa Smith, Supervising Employment Services Counselor from our Community Partner, Department of Social Services (DPSS). The focus of this podcast is the self-sufficiency programs offered by DPSS, including the Welfare to Work Program. (4:59) Nathan reveals that RivCoDCSS and DPSS are striving towards the same goal – self-sufficiency for our clients. Helping our customers be at ease and to recognize that we are all here as County Agencies to provide every service that someone is qualified to receive, applies for and qualifies for. Including the cross-over of having a child support case and applying for DPSS services. (6:50) Self-sufficiency is a general term. What does self-sufficiency mean to DPSS and what services are provided? Specific to self-sufficiency, what are those programs, what is offered, and what is available to the public? (7:27) Alisa Smith states, self-sufficiency is a division within DPSS and also their philosophy. CalWORKS program and the Welfare-to-Work program will be discussed in detail later on in the podcast. (9:23) Marivel Castaneda discusses part of the Self-Sufficiency DPSS program that includes CalWORKS. (9:38) MediCal Program is discussed. What is the program, who is eligible, and what are the qualifications? (10:02) CalWORKs program is the “CalWORKS Opportunity and Responsibility Program” and is a cash assistance program. (10:15) CalFresh is explained and discussed. (10:50) The general assistance program is reviewed. Program for adults 18 years and older. There are some specific program requirements. (11:11) How do I apply for those benefits? It’s very easy to apply. (13:40) Is there any information or documentation that should be ready ahead of time when applying for programs? (16:07) Child support and CalWORKS. (18:38) The General CalWORKS umbrella and the different services. (19:37) Welfare-to-Work program discussed in detail: Employment services, job readiness workshops, classes on relationships, DPSS partners with Riverside County Behavioral Health services to offer counseling, childcare, transportation expenses, and other employment expenses to name just a few. (23.40) Who are these services available to? (25:10) There are additional programs that are fairly new to the Welfare-to-Work Program: career development services, subsidized employment program which partners with local business’, work experience program, no-cost education in-demand fields, family stabilization program, housing support programs. (27:30) Is there a limit on how long someone can have these services provided to them? (28:19) Who qualifies? Family, children and/or an individual without children? (29:04) This is a lot of information to take in, if I qualify and I’m receiving these benefits, will I have to pay the benefits back? (32:00) What is the approach and response to encourage customers to provide updated information. (34:35) Is there anything our listeners need to know about the different changes due to COVID-19 and circumstances with your office or programs? (36:36) Program is coming to an end: last two questions. Any additional services you would like to add that may have been missed and what would you like to leave with our customers in closing? (40:08) Nathan’s RivCoDCSS closing thought. (41:04) Subscribe to our podcast.
For information on all DPSS programs, go to the website: www.rivcodpss.org
To apply online for all programs, go to: www.c4yourself.com
If in need of food assistance – get information at: www.getcalfresh.org
If in need of medical go to: www.coverCA.com
877-410-8827 – call for a hard copy application
As we continue our Coffee Break with our host Nathan Hartel, Deputy Director of Programs and Operations of Riverside County Child Support Services. Episode 3 with (0:13) Introducing Tammi Graham the Executive Director of our community partner First 5 Riverside. (1:01) Tammi Graham the Executive Director of First 5 Riverside introduces herself and gives a brief summary of her time with First 5. (1:33) Nathan goes into discussing the number of families we serve at Riverside County Child Support Services and services provided by the department (1:51). Services include establishing court orders for child and medical support, services helping our families be self-sufficient, and the roles other agencies can play in helping with that. (2:30) Tammi gives insight on what to expect on First 5’s website. (3:15) Even though COVID impacted many individuals, Riverside County Child Support Services continues to offer services virtually. We are here for our customers. (4:06) Tammi explains how COVID impacted the services provided at First 5 Riverside. Tammi discusses how First 5 partners with other community-based organizations and how funding is still available for these resources. (5:08) Tammi gives an example of a community-based provider that First 5 helps fund jointly with Prop-10 and CalWorks. (6:55) First 5 is anticipating a return to in-home services they provide. (7:27) Nathan discusses how child support customers can obtain an appointment virtually. (8:06) Tammi discusses the history of First 5 and how she started out, and what her mission and vision are. (9:08) Information about 58 other First 5 agency’s state and local levels (11:03) Understanding First 5 and going to website First5Riverside.org. (11:54) Type of First 5 services that are available to you parents with children ages 0-5. (12:10) Do you need Medi-Cal or help feeling out the application, First 5 can help at their Mecca Valley location. (12: 40) Another resource offered through First 5 is mental health counseling, legal services, and much more. (12:56) Enhanced partnerships provide expanded resources for customers over the age of 5. (14:15). Knowing where to go and what to ask with connecting partners from other agencies such as Riverside County’s First 5, Public Social Services, and Child Support Service. (15:04) Tammi discusses the different family resources offered at their Mead Valley location. (16:10) Resources for parents and how to obtain a parenting kit. (18:27) What can a customer expect from First 5? (19:34) The role of First 5 and its relation to childcare. (20:49) Early childhood education and development. (21:08) Tammi talks about the relationship with Riverside County’s Behavioral Health and the Set for School program. (25:15) First 5 contact information. (25:43) If you see something, say something the slogan for Child Abuse Awareness month.
Welcome to Season 3 Episode 2 of Riverside County Department of Child Support Services Coffee Break Podcast with our Host Nathan Hartel, Deputy Director of Programs and Operations. (.028) Why we talk, “all things child support”. (0.38) This episode is an “Espresso Shot”, quick, over fast but full of flavor and packs a punch! (1:03) Information about resources on our website. How to get to our general helpful resource page. This page offers information on a variety of other county departments and agencies that can assist you. (1:31) We have a new Job and Career Resources page which provides information on job opportunities, continuing education, GED prep program, apprenticeship, trade programs, truck driving, HVAC, other job and career resources, English as a second language, info on expungement of criminal record issues, citizenship, selective service, and military. (3.26) Riverside County Department of Child Support Services is here to support the community! (4:49) Again, go to RivCoDCSS.com to review the resource page on our website. (5:16) Check out our upcoming events! (5:21) How to subscribe to our podcast and find our past podcasts. (5:46) Tune in to find out about more services offered, who we are, what we can do for you, and info on opening a new case. (6:08) Information on the opening of the 2nd Saturday of the Month with virtual appointments. (6:41) Here are the ways to contact us by phone or by the website. (7:03) Information on our upcoming Virtual Workshop, April 8, 2021 – with our community partner “First 5”!
Riverside County Department of Child Support Services (RivCoDCSS) Season 3 will focus on our Community Partners and the Resources available to Riverside County residents. These Community Partners have the same ideals and commitment as RivCoDCSS to serve our clients and the community. This Season’s Episode 1 with Host Nathan Hartel starts with (1:00) an introduction of Olga Sanchez, Senior Community Program Specialist and Community Action Partnership (CAP). (1:18) Olga Sanchez introduces herself and explains the variety of services available. (1:50) CAP’s goal is to be able to encourage and motivate everyone to be self-sufficient and to have reachable and attainable goals. Stronger, better residents for Riverside County. (4:12) Let’s find out how COVID impacted CAP and the delivery of their services. (7:39) Olga shares the location of the five-county offices and the best ways to contact the offices at this time. (10:35) How are the services of CAP delivered? How does CAP go about the “how” part of customer service? Olga provides valuable information to these questions. (12:20) Information is shared about the utility assistance programs available from CAP. Community Action CARES is discussed in detail and all the various utilities that qualify for this program. (14:30) Who qualifies in general for CAP services/assistance? Application information and the process is explained. (19:06) CAP is a one-stop-shop. The specifics of the different available services will be discussed more in-depth. (20:01) Olga Sanchez begins with showcasing the asset-building programs. (20:21) The savings match programs allow individuals to obtain a goal that they have set for themselves. (21:05) Tech for Success Program is discussed. You can earn and obtain a desktop or laptop! (23:48) Details of the savings for services match program. Open a new business, an education goal, or the purchase of a home for the first time. The program is a dollar match on an individual’s savings. (28:28) All of our relationships with loved ones, family, and friends have been affected over the last year. The conflict resolution program and the mediation program is discussed. Workshops are available for both youth and adults. (32:33) Other services are mentioned. (32:40) The youth programs provide tutoring services, as well as a pre-apprenticeship program. (34:26) Overview of the VITA – Tax Program. (38:28) Nathan has a few closing questions and CAP provides the answers and gives some helpful pointers.
Welcome to the Coffee Break podcast, where hosts, Child Support Chief Attorney, Bruce Wagner and Child Support Deputy Director, Nathan Hartel talk about topics that will help you understand the Child Support program just a little easier by bringing you coffee break sips of Child Support knowledge.
This Coffee Break episode is a special one, as it is the finale to Season Two. But that’s not the only thing that makes this episode special; the hosts have a special announcement: your Coffee Break host, Bruce has announced his retirement from DCSS! (1:20) This is Bruce’s final podcast with Coffee Break; but don’t worry, the Coffee Break’s will continue in Season 3, with Nathan as a solo host, along with special guests.
As this podcast serves as a farewell and thank you to Bruce, it also served as a final opportunity to interview Bruce and have him share some of his best insight regarding the Child Support program. This interview also served as a reminder as to why the podcast was created, and that is to showcase what the customer experience with DCSS should be. (3:30)
A little about your host, Bruce Wagner: did you know he was a math teacher? Yes, Mr. Wagner, high school teacher. (7:00) Who would have known he would later hold a career as a Child Support Attorney with the District Attorney’s division?
Bruce talks about the greatest changes that occurred in the Child Support program within the transition of DCSS separating from the D.A.’s division, into its own entity under the Human Services division. (8:15) Through the lifespan of DCSS, the focus has changed into what can be done to help the parents/caretakers meet the requirements of their Child Support order. (9:50)
The most important piece of information that Bruce can provide is this, “Child Support is not a science, it is an art. The most important aspect is to be honest, caring, and willing to work together, not only with the other parent/caretaker, but with the Child Support representatives, focusing on what is best for the child(ren); being heard and valued.” (15:40)
Part of this approach to focus on what is best for the child(ren), also takes place in court. The Child Support attorneys do not advocate for either parent/caretaker. The attorneys present information to the commissioner, to narrow down the issue for a more efficient process. Child Support attorneys are impartial and work with both parents. (19:00)
And as the final farewell, Bruce speaks on the most rewarding part of the Child Support program: providing quality service, being as fair as possible, and doing whatever DCSS can do to get an appropriate court order that will work for the parents and help improve the lives of the child(ren). This is not only in Riverside, but it is a focus for Child Support departments statewide. (23:50)
Now, Mr. Wagner’s cup of coffee is empty, and he has no more refills. Best retirement wishes! Now as should our listeners, Bruce will subscribe as a Coffee Break podcast listener, and looks forward to listening to future episodes with many guests to the show in Season 3. Subscribe and stay tuned.
