Blog

Visit our Human Services Blog regularly for information about current issues, research and happenings in the field of human services. All content is generated by UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education staff, instructors or colleagues.

We also produce several digital publications—each with a specific focus on an area of human services practice:

An older person's hands hold a red heart against a pink background.

June Is Elder Abuse Awareness Month

  • by Brady Oppenheim
While Adult Protective Services professionals are on the front lines of protecting older and dependent adults, everyone can make a difference by being aware of elder abuse—and knowing what you can do to help yourself or a loved one. 
Group photo of five diverse young adults wearing name tags, smiling together on an outdoor terrace during a networking event.

Envisioning Sustainability in Child Welfare

  • by Tyler Morgenstern, UC Davis Human Services

Balancing personal well-being against workplace stress can be tricky in any profession. But in child welfare, where the job often means guiding families through some of the darkest moments of their lives, it can feel like a daily struggle. From managing complex case plans and child removal proceedings to responding to abuse and neglect, child welfare professionals face high risks of burnout, secondary traumatization and other serious stressors. Left unaddressed, these pressures can drive turnover and weaken workforce resilience.  

Karla McNicholas in a sunny setting, surrounded by greenery.

Fostering Connection and Belonging: Karla McNicholas Named 2026 Sarah Duncan Champion for Children and Families

  • by Jason M Borucki
Karla McNicholas of Butte County has been named the 2026 Sarah Duncan Champion for Children and Families, recognized for her dedication to connecting youth with family and fostering a sense of belonging. Her work highlights the impact of intentional family engagement in improving outcomes for children and families across Northern California.
California Wraparound

Connection Is at the Core of Wraparound

  • by Nancy Hafer, Director, UC Davis Resource Center for Family-Focused Practice
This issue of Wraparound Connections focuses on the engagement phase, where the work begins with youth and families.
Colorful baking ingredients and utensils arranged on a blue surface.

The Recipe for Successful Portal Submissions

  • by California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
Just as Wraparound thrives through connection, so does this process. If you have questions or need guidance, the UC Davis Resource Center for Family-Focused Practice (RCFFP) is ready to help.
A woman with long, dark hair holding a wooden bassinet decorated with colorful fabric trim, with a serene expression against a cloudy sky.

Building Brighter Futures for Native Families

  • by Tyler Morgenstern, UC Davis Human Services

As a child welfare social worker with Napa County’s Department of Children and Family Services and Title IV-E alumnus, Shirley “Kippi” Begay wakes up every day knowing that she has found work with purpose. A former Care Coordinator with the Native American Health Center in Oakland, Kippi, who is San Carlos Apache, Navajo, Hualapai and, by her own account, Urban Indian, helps to build brighter futures for Native children and families in her community. 

Two joyful children with raised hands stand together, silhouetted against a sunset.

2026 Sarah Duncan Award Nominees Announced

  • by Jason M Borucki
Eight social workers from across Northern California are recognized for their dedication to improving outcomes for children, youth and families.

In celebration of March's National Social Work Month, the Northern Academy annually invites colleagues and community partners across Northern California to nominate an outstanding social worker for the Sarah Duncan Champion for Children and Families Award. The award recognizes professionals whose dedication and compassion make a lasting difference in the lives of children, youth and families.

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