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Report to Commissioners, Forum Participants, and Human Services Agencies from the Human Services Advisory Commission's Annual Forum "Human Services in Transition: New Opportunities" November 1995 . Background The report summarizes the ideas generated during the 1995 Annual HSAC Forum. The forum, which was held October 2, 1995 at the Friday Center in Chapel Hill, NC, attracted 120 participants. Two keynote speakers, Betty Lou Ward, Wake County Commissioner, and Carmen Hooker, Spouse of the Chancellor at UNC and former Massachusetts Legislator, spoke on current changes and opportunities in Human Services. Small groups were then charged to list and prioritize opportunities for Human Services agencies in this time of change and uncertainty. The groups then spent the afternoon brainstorming strategies to address opportunities. Facilitators briefly presented the results from their sessions to the entire group at the close of the day. Four county commissioners responded with their thoughts on the current and future status of Human Services in Orange County. Results The following information highlights the ideas generated by the seven groups, as well as reflections of the HSAC members. The complete notes from each of the seven groups is available upon request. Several points seemed to be reiterated by more than one group. I. The main concept of viewing human services workers as service brokers and consultants versus service providers was a consistent theme. In order to effectively make this shift, many participants expressed a desire to see the client as more of a partner in determining the needed services, as well as, identifying the method for obtaining such services. This shift will require planning by each agency and training for employees. Responsible Parties: Agencies II. Peer support and peer mentoring mechanisms for clients was strongly endorsed. In order to incorporate some of these changes, human services agencies will have to examine their current mode of operations, and take a new approach to helping those who need services. Staff will require training if they are to assume n_ ew roles effectively. Responsible Parties Agencies III. An important message from many participants was that the work done at the forum should be continued throughout the year. The HSAC recommends the creation of a mechanism for continued communications among area agencies. This may be achieved through providing additional opportunities for human services personnel to work together; the dissemination of a newsletter; or some other means. Responsible Parties: HSAC, County Government