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The Department of Children’s Services is seeking help from the community for volunteers!

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Volunteers are an important part of the network of community partnerships that help protect children, develop youth, strengthen families, and build safe communities.

​Certified volunteers are valued at the Department of Children’s Services as additional resources that enhance programs and help provide non-formal services for the children and families served by the department. Volunteers are trained and offer support in any area of the department where there are identified needs.

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  • Volunteer in Person*

    • Play with children who come into custody -- or just keep them company -- while they wait

    • Aide a caseworker with office duties and filing

    • Support administrative office staff by making copies and performing other clerical tasks

    • Assist a caseworker by sitting in on Child and Family Team Meetings (CFTM) to serve as advocates for children and families. Additionally, the volunteer’s presence in the CFTM enhance safety and permanence for children

    • Help a caseworker by serving in a supportive role to the family throughout the life of a case and even after it is closed. 

    • Share your knowledge of community resources with caseworkers

    • If you are interested, please contact Sara Haun at sara.haun@tn.gov

      • *Volunteers do not supplant DCS staff in providing services but contribute to the agency by offering their distinct talents, skills, and resources. 

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  • Donate to Knox Co Department of Children’s Services (DCS)

    • New clothes, shoes, undergarments (boys and girls, sizes 3T-adult)

    • Hygiene products (full sized, multiethnic)

    • Duffle bags or backpacks (no suitcases)

    • Gift cards (gas - may donate to Compassion Coalition and note “DCS” in the memo)

    • Christmas Presents

    • If you are interested, please contact Carren Broadnax at carren.broadnax@tn.gov

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  • Get involved with Juvenile Court: Foster Care Review Board

    • ​Meets monthly to review cases involving children in DCS custody (foster care). ​

    • Prospective volunteers need  to attend an evening's session and observe the Board for one night. There is then an application and confidentiality agreement to sign before you will be assigned to a Board for the following months.

    • If you are interested, please contact Chris Gregory at chris.Gregory@knoxcounty.org

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