Engage with Child & Family Services (CFS)

At Olmsted County Child and Family Services, community voices matter. We’re dedicated to partnering with families and local organizations to build services that truly support children and families.

What we’re hearing from families

In 2025, we invited families to share their experiences through a survey. The feedback highlighted what’s working well — especially strong, respectful relationships with our staff and positive outcomes like improved stability and family connections. Families also told us they feel their cultural backgrounds and strengths are honored, which builds trust and healing.

At the same time, we heard where we can do better. Clearer communication, easier access to services, and more tailored support in areas like mental health and parenting are top priorities. This feedback guides how we improve training, coordinate care, and design programs.

Ways to engage 

• Connect with our team at community forums to share your ideas and experiences.
• Partner with us through schools, nonprofits, and cultural groups to strengthen support for families.

Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPCWDA) 

Olmsted County is implementing the Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act to reduce racial disparities in child welfare and strengthen family preservation. This work is ongoing and informed by staff training, policy updates, and community partnership.

Learn more about how the Act is being implemented locally:

• Implementation overview: Olmsted County supports new state law aimed at reducing child welfare disparities
• Community conversation: Watch the Barbershop Talk Live event, where Child and Family Services leaders discuss the Act, walk through the Child Protection process, and respond to community questions.

These resources share how the Act is shaping decision-making, service delivery, and engagement with families and community partners.