National Children’s Alliance recognizes Child Abuse Services Team for ongoing delivery of high quality and effective services to child abuse victims
Orange County, Calif. (June 27, 2024) — The Child Abuse Services Team (CAST) is once again nationally recognized as a Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) through its renewed accreditation by the National Children’s Alliance (NCA). The organization also awarded CAST with accreditation under the optional Commercially Sexually Exploited Children (CSEC) and Physical Abuse Standards.
For 35 years CAST has brought together public safety agencies, medical professionals, social workers, child interview specialists and child advocates in a multi-disciplinary team to conduct child sexual abuse investigations in a manner that keeps the victims’ needs at the forefront. In meeting the criteria for the optional standards, CAST can also provide services for children who are victims of or witness to human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation, and physical abuse.
CAST, the only CAC in Orange County, works with all 23 local law enforcement jurisdictions to bring victims and witnesses to the center for forensic interviews, medical exams and/or crisis intervention therapy. In 2023, CAST served nearly 660 children, conducting 478 forensic interviews, completing 80 sexual abuse exams, and 20 physical abuse exams. Victim witness had 471 referrals.
NCA ensures all CACs provide children and families with effective, efficient, relevant and compassionate services through an accreditation process every five years.
“The Child Abuse Services Team is to be commended for its continued commitment to effectively support the statewide CAC movement in California,” said NCA Chief Executive Teresa Huizar. “As the national association and accrediting body for Children’s Advocacy Centers across the country, our goal is to ensure that every victim of child abuse has access to high quality services that result from professional collaboration.”
If you suspect a child is experiencing abuse or neglect, please call the 24-hour Child Abuse Hotline at 714-940-1000 or 800-207-4464, or your local law enforcement agency.
(Santa Ana, CA)– On June 25, 2024, the Orange County Board of Supervisors appointed Ian Kemmer, as the new Director of Behavioral Health Services (BHS), for the OC Health Care Agency (HCA). Kemmer brings 22 years of behavioral health experience to the role. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Kemmer will take over the role from Interim BHS Director, Annette Mugrditchian. Most recently, Ian served as the Assistant Deputy Director of Adult and Older Adult Mental Health Services at the HCA, where he was responsible for oversight of Adult Outpatient and Intense Outpatient Services; Recovery Support Services including Veteran supportive services; Housing and Supportive Services which includes 12 Long-Term Care programs, 325 permanent supportive housing units, five residential rehab units, and eight Bridge housing programs. In prior roles at the HCA, Kemmer led the development of Annual Provider Training, Medi-Cal auditing certified review process and oversight of the Managed Care Support Team. “In his tenure with the HCA, Ian has established himself as a dedicated and caring champion for behavioral health and is well-positioned to take over leadership of the HCA’s Behavioral Health team,” said Dr. Veronica Kelley, HCA Agency Director. “This is an unprecedented time of change for the public Behavioral Health system, and Ian will be an asset in transforming the HCA to navigate the future.” “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the new Behavioral Health Services Director for the HCA,” said Kemmer. “Throughout my career, I have worked tirelessly to improve the mental health and well-being of our community, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. In recent years, mental health and substance-use disorders have become a critical focus of our community, with increasing recognition of the need for comprehensive care and support. I am looking forward to facing these changes head on as we transform our system for the better.” Kemmer will assume his new role as Behavioral Health Services Director beginning June 28, 2024.
(Santa Ana, CA) - June 27 marks National HIV Testing Day (NHTD), which promotes testing and early diagnosis of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). This year's NHTD theme is Level up your self-love: check your status . Now is the time to take an HIV test. Knowing your status is the first step to engaging in prevention or treatment services that enable individuals, regardless of their status, to live a long and healthy life.
There were 7,044 people living with HIV in Orange County at the end of 2023. Of those, 77% were receiving care. Untreated, HIV infection can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which in turn can cause serious illness and death. Advances in HIV treatment have resulted in people living with HIV having longer and healthier lives. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that an additional 1,494 Orange County residents have HIV and don't know it – some of whom will develop AIDS before knowing they have HIV. Additional HIV/AIDS data in Orange County includes:
During 2023, there were 266 Orange County residents newly diagnosed with HIV.
Of the newly diagnosed, 80% were linked to care in 30 days or less.
Of the newly diagnosed, 21% learned that they had AIDS at the same time, indicating that they were living with HIV for years before getting ill. They had been to a health care setting such as an emergency room, a community health center, or their doctor, but were not tested for HIV.
The CDC recommends that people between 13 and 64 years of age get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. For those at high risk for HIV, including men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender individuals, and persons who inject drugs, the CDC recommends testing at least once per year as part of routine health care.
If you have never been tested for HIV, ask your health care provider for an HIV test. For those who test negative and are at high risk for HIV, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication to prevent HIV, is available. Please contact the following agencies for information on free, confidential HIV testing, as well as for information on free or low-cost PrEP services available in Orange County:
AltaMed: Testing is offered Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Call (714) 500-0491 or visit altamed.org or https://www.instagram.com/growproud . AltaMed will be participating in The Greater Than AIDS Campaign ( www.greaterthan.org ) offering free HIV testing in partnership with Walgreens at 1826 W. Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 92833 from 9 am to 4 pm on June 27.
APAIT Health Center: Testing is offered Monday - Friday, 10 am to 4:30 pm Call (714) 636-1349 or visit www.apaitonline.org/ for more information. In recognition of NHTD, testing hours will be extended from 9 am to 8 pm and walk-ins are encouraged on Thursday, June 27. In addition, APAIT will be participating in The Greater Than AIDS campaign ( www.greaterthan.org ) offering free HIV testing in partnership with Walgreens located at 12001 Euclid St., Garden Grove, CA 92840 and Walgreens located at 128 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806 from 10 am to 7 pm on NHTD at both Walgreens locations.
Families Together Orange County: Testing is offered at three locations: Tustin, Monday through Friday 9 am to 8 pm, Saturdays 9 am to 4 pm; Garden Grove, Monday through Friday 9 am to 6 pm, Saturdays 9 am to 4 pm; Fountain Valley - Monday through Friday 9 am to 6 pm Call (800) 597-7977 or visit https://familiestogetheroc.org/ .
OC Health Care Agency/17th Street Testing & Treatment Clinic: Walk-ins accepted based on availability. Clinic hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 8 am to 4 pm and Tuesday, 10 am to 4 pm Call (714) 834-8787 to make an appointment or visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/std for more information.
The LGBTQ Center Orange County: Testing is offered Tuesday, 10 am to 8:30 pm, Wednesday and Thursday, 6 pm to 9 pm, and Friday, 10 am to 6 pm To make an appointment or for more information call (714) 953 -5428 or visit www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/ . For HIV self-testing, the TakeMeHome Program offers free confidential HIV self-test kits that can be ordered online for individuals (17 or older) who are at risk for HIV and have never tested or who have not tested in the past six months https ://takemehome.org .
ABOUT THE OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) is a regional interdisciplinary health jurisdiction and an accredited health department, charged with protecting and promoting individual, family and community health through partnership and coordination of public and private sector resources. Visit www.ochealthinfo.com to learn more about services and resources.
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"Raising Your Self-Love Level: Check in with Your Health." National HIV Testing Day is Thursday, June 27
(Santa Ana, CA) – June 27 marks National HIV Testing Day (NHTD), which promotes early testing and diagnosis of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). This year's NHTD theme is Increasing Your Level of Self-Love: Check You're Healthy . Now is the time to get an HIV test. Knowing your condition is the first step to participating in prevention or treatment services that allow people, regardless of their condition, to live a long and healthy life.
At the end of 2023, there were 7,044 people living with HIV in Orange County. Of them, 77% received care. If left untreated, HIV infection can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which in turn can cause serious illness and death. Advances in HIV treatment have led to people living with HIV living longer, healthier lives. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that another 1,494 Orange County residents have HIV and don't know it, and some will develop AIDS before they know they have HIV. Additional facts about HIV/AIDS in Orange County include:
During 2023, there were 266 Orange County residents newly diagnosed with HIV.
Of those newly diagnosed, 80% were linked to care in 30 days or less.
Of those newly diagnosed, 21% learned they had AIDS at the same time, indicating that they lived with HIV for years before becoming ill. They had been in a health care setting such as an emergency room, a community health center, or with their doctor, but were not tested for HIV.
The CDC recommends that people ages 13 to 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. For people at high risk for HIV, including men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender people, and people who inject drugs, CDC recommends testing at least once a year as part of care. routine medical.
If you have never been tested for HIV, ask your healthcare provider to test you for HIV. For those who test negative and are at high risk for HIV, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication to prevent HIV, is available. Please contact the following agencies for information about free and confidential HIV testing, as well as information about free or low-cost PrEP services available in Orange County:
AltaMed: Testing is offered Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Call (714) 500-0491 or visit altamed.org or https://www.instagram.com/growproud . AltaMed will participate in the “Greater Than” AIDS campaign ( www.greaterthan.org ) and offer free HIV testing in partnership with Walgreens at 1826 W. Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 92833 from 9 AM to 4 PM on June 27 .
APAIT Health Center: Testing is offered Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 4:30 PM Call (714) 636-1349 or visit www.apaitonline.org/ for more information. In recognition of the NHTD, testing hours will be extended from 9 AM to 8 PM and, if you do not have an appointment, it is recommended that you come in on Thursday, June 27. Additionally, APAIT will participate in the “Greater Than” AIDS campaign ( www.greaterthan.org ) that offers free HIV testing in partnership with Walgreens located at 12001 Euclid St., Garden Grove, CA 92840 and Walgreens located at 128 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806 from 10 am to 7 pm at the NHTD at both Walgreens locations.
Families Together Orange County: Testing is offered at three locations: Tustin, Monday-Friday 9 AM-8 PM, Saturday 9 AM-4 PM; Garden Grove, Monday-Friday 9 AM-6 PM, Saturday 9 AM-4 PM; Fountain Valley, Monday-Friday 9 AM-6 PM. Call (800) 597-7977 or visit https://familiestogetheroc.org/ .
Orange County Health Care Agency/17th Street Testing & Treatment Clinic: Walk-ins accepted based on availability. Clinic hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM and Tuesday from 10 AM to 4 PM Call (714) 834-8787 to make an appointment or visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/ std for more information.
The LGBTQ Center for Orange County: Testing is offered Tuesdays, 10 AM - 8:30 PM, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 6 PM - 9 PM, and Fridays, 10 AM - 6 PM. To make an appointment or for more information, call (714) 953-5428 or visit www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/ . To test yourself for HIV, the TakeMeHome Program offers free, confidential HIV testing kits that can be ordered online for individuals (17 years or older) who are at risk for HIV and have never been tested or have not been tested in the past six months https://takemehome.org .
ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY HEALTH CARE AGENCY The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) is an interdisciplinary regional health jurisdiction and accredited health department charged with protecting and promoting individual, family and community through association and coordination of public and private sector resources. Visit www.ochealthinfo.com for more information about services and resources.
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“Nâng cao tự ái của bạn: Hãy kiểm tra tình trạng của bạn” Ngày
(Santa Ana, CA) – Ngày 27 Tháng Sáu đánh dấu Ngày ảm miễn dịch ở người). Năm nay chủ đề của NHTD là Nâng cao tự ái của bạn: Hãy kiểm tra tình trạng của bạn . Bây giờ là thời điểm phải đi làm xét nghiệm HIV. Hello bất kể tình trạng của họ, được sống một cuộc sống lâu dài và khỏe mạnh.
Đã có 7,044 người bị nhiễm HIV tại Quận Cam vào cuối năm 2023. Strong số này, 77% đã nhận được sự chăm sóc. Không chữa trị, bị nhiễm HIV có thể đưa tới bị bệnh AIDS (mắc phải hội chứng suy giảm miễn dịch), từ đó có thể gây bệnh n ăng và tử vong. Những tiến bộ strong việc điều trị đã giúp những người bị nhiễm HIV có cuộc sống lâu dài và khỏe mạnh hơn. Tuy nhiên Trung Tâm Bài Dịch Liên Bang (CDC) ước tính rằng có thêm 1,494 cư dân Quận Cam đã bị nhiễm HIV mà không biết được điều đó – một số trong những người này sẽ khai triển bệnh AIDS trước khi biết được rằng họ đã bị nhiễm HIV. Các dữ liệu bổ xung HIV/AIDS tại Quận Cam bao gồm:
Trong năm 2023, đã có 266 cư dân Quận Cam mới được chẩn đoán nhiễm HIV.
Trong số những chẩn đoán mới, 80% được kết nối với sự chăm sóc trong 30 ngày hay ít hơn.
Strong condition ạng HIV từ nhiều năm trước khi họ bị bệnh. Họ đã đến cơ sở chăm sóc sức khoẻ như phòng cấp cứu, trung tâm y tế cộng đồng hoặc bác sĩ của họ nhưng không ợc xét nghiệm HIV.
Cơ Quan CDC khuyến nghị những người từ 13 đến 64 tuổi nên xét nghiệm HIV ít nhất một lần trong quá trình chăm sóc sức e định kỳ. Đối với những người có nguy cơ cao bị nhiễm HIV, bao gồm những người đàn ông có quan hệ tình dục với đàn ông (MSM), các cá nhân chuyển giới, và những người chích thuốc kích thích, Cơ Quan CDC khuyến nghị xét nghiệm ít nhất một lần strong quá trình chăm sóc sức khỏe định kỳ.
Nếu bạn chưa bao giờ xét nghiệm về HIV, hãy yêu cầu bác sĩ gia đình của bạn cung cấp một xét nghiệm về HIV. Đối với những người có kết quả xét nghiệm âm tính và có nguy cơ nhiễm HIV cao, có sẵn thuốc Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), một loại thuốc ăn ngừa HIV. xin vụ PrEP miễn phí hoặc chi phí thấp có sẵn ở Quận Cam.
AltaMed : Gọi số (714) 500-0491 there is vào altamed.org there is https://www.instagram.com/growproud . AltaMed sẽ tham dự vào Chiến Dịch Vĩ Đại Hơn AIDS ( www.greaterthan.org ) cung cấp xét nghiệm HIV miễn phí cùng hợp tác với Walgreens tại 1826 W. Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 9 2833 từ 9 giờ sáng đến 4 giờ chiều Ngày 27 Tháng Sáu.
Trung Tâm Sức Khỏe APAIT : Gọi (714) 636-1349 hay vào www.apaitonline.org/ để biết thêm thông tin. Để công nhận NHTD, giờ xét nghiệm sẽ được gia tăng từ 9 giờ sáng đến 8 giờ tối và đến tận chổ không cần lấy ẹn trước cũng được chấp nhận vào ngày Thứ Năm, 27 Tháng Sáu. Thêm vào đó, APAIT sẽ tham dự vào chiến dịch Vĩ Đại Hơn AIDS ( www.greaterthan.org ) cấp xét nghiệm miễn phí HIV với sự hợp tác của Walgreens tọa ạc tại 12001 Euclid St., Garden Grove, CA 92840 và Walgreens tọa lạc tại 128 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92806 từ 10 giờ sáng đến 7 giờ tối trên NHTD tại cả hai địa điểm Walgreens.
Families Together Orange County: 9 giờ sáng đến 4 giờ chiều; Garden Grove, Thứ Hai đến Thứ Sáu từ 9 giờ sáng đến 6 giờ chiều; Thứ Bảy 9 giờ sáng đến 4 giờ chiều; Fountain Valley – Thứ Hai đến Thứ Sáu 9 giờ sáng đến 6 giờ chiều Gọi (800) 597-7977 hay vào https://familiestogetheroc.org/ .
With the help of a chef/17th Street Good Morning America & Chia Trou: We are so glad that you enjoyed your meal with us. First Aid Kit: First Aid, First Aid, First Aid Kit and First Aid Kit,8 blood tests and 4 blood tests and First Aid Kit and First Aid Kit,10 blood tests and 4 blood tests and First Aid Kit and First Aid Kit. If you have any questions, please contact (714) 834-8787 at http://www.ochealthinfo.com/std .
Trung Tâm LGBTQ Quận Cam: 9 giờ tối, và Thứ Sáu, 10 giờ sáng đến 6 giờ chiều. Để làm hẹn hay muốn biết thêm thông tin gọi số (714) 953-5428 hay vào www.lgbtqcenteroc.org/ . Tự Xét Nghiệm HIV, Chương trình Đem Tôi Về Nhà (TakeMeHome Program) mỗi cá nhân (từ 17 tuổi trở lên) là người có nguy cơ bị nhiễm HIV và chưa bao giờ xét nghiệm hay những người đã không xét nghiệm trong sáu tháng qua https://takemehome.org .
VỀ CƠ QUAN ĐẶC TRÁCH Y TẾ CÔNG CỘNG OC Cơ Quan Đặc Trách Y Tế Công Cộng OC (HCA) là cơ quan y tế tài phán liên ngành trong khu vực và là sở y được công nhận, chịu trách nhiệm bảo vệ và tăng cường sức khỏe cá nhân, gia đình và cộng đồng thông qua liên hệ đối tác và phối hợp các nguồn tài nguyên công và tư. Xin vào www.ochealthinfo.com để biết thêm về những dịch vụ và tài nguyên.
Orange County, Calif. (June 25, 2024) — OC Residents are invited to attend The Stories that Connect Us, a free community event of celebration and awareness, presented by the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA) and Orange County Resettlement Agencies.
OIRA and Orange County Resettlement Agencies will host the event from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 29 at the Anaheim Central Library, 500 W. Broadway, Anaheim, CA 92805.
“For OIRA’s first official community event, I want to welcome and celebrate the rich talent, culture and experiences that our refugee and immigrant neighbors knit into the fabric of our Orange County community,” said OIRA Director Jose Serrano.
Festivities will kick off with an art walk featuring work from Colombian American artist Andres Felipe Rivera, Venezuelan American artist Jhonaikel Vielma Belandria, Syrian Emmy award-winning video journalist Samer Alchikh Kouider and other featured artists. A Dabke performance by Western High School’s Arabic class will follow. Noorzad Productions, an Afghan family-owned event and party planning business, will cater the event with light appetizers featuring flavors from Afghanistan.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with artists and artwork, as well as the opportunity to share their own talent during Open Mic and Poetry Reading hour.
The event aims to bring together people from various cultures and backgrounds to celebrate the unique characteristics, stories and contributions of refugee and immigrant residents in Orange County. All are welcome.
(SANTA ANA, CA) – Airline passenger traffic at John Wayne Airport decreased in May 2024 as compared to May 2023. In May 2024, the Airport served 950,740 passengers, a decrease of 8.7% when compared with the May 2023 passenger traffic count of 1,041,342.
Commercial aircraft operations in May 2024 of 7,862 decreased 4.9% and commuter aircraft operations of 420 decreased 0.5% when comparing with May 2023 levels.
Total aircraft operations increased in May 2024 as compared with the same month in 2023. In May 2024, there were 25,061 total aircraft operations (takeoffs and landings) a 10.2% increase compared to 22,748 total aircraft operations in May 2023.
General aviation activity of 16,734 accounted for 66.8% of the total aircraft operations during May 2024, and increased 19.2% compared with May 2023.
The top three airlines in May 2024 based on passenger count were Southwest Airlines (279,803), American Airlines (169,769) and United Airlines (147,621).
John Wayne Airport Monthly Airport Statistics - May 2024
Aircraft used for regularly scheduled air service, configured with not more than seventy (70) seats, and operating at weights not more than ninety thousand (90,000) pounds.
All-Cargo Carriers:
1,204 tons
Passenger Carriers (incidental belly cargo):
88 tons
Current cargo tonnage figures in this report are for:
April 2024
Includes all Canada and Mexico Commercial passengers and operations.
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John Wayne Airport (SNA) is owned by the County of Orange and is operated as a self-supporting enterprise that receives no general fund tax revenue. The Airport serves more than 11.3 million passengers annually and reaches more than 40 nonstop destinations in the United States, Canada and Mexico. More information can be found atwww.ocair.com. Like us onfacebook.com/johnwayneairport, or follow us onX (formerly Twitter) @johnwayneairandInstagram @johnwayneair.
SANTA ANA, Calif. (June 25, 2024) – Approved at today’s Orange County Board of Supervisors meeting, the Orange County Veterans Service Office (VSO) has been awarded a two-year $300,000 Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) grant from the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) to continue mental health outreach for California veterans. This grant will be disbursed over two fiscal years (FY), with $150,000 allocated for FY 2024/2025 and FY 2025/2026.
“The County continues to look for ways to improve how we provide services to residents,” said Chairman Donald P. Wagner, Third District Supervisor. “This funding will increase awareness of available support to veterans, service members, and their families as they transition back to civilian life.”
“After completing their service, Orange County veterans need access to a wide range of services, including critical mental health resources," said Vice Chairman Doug Chaffee, Fourth District Supervisor. "The grant allows the VSO to bridge the gaps veterans face when accessing these essential services.”
Through the MHSA grant, the VSO will hire a Veterans Case Navigator (Navigator) to facilitate local coordination, provide case management, and establish connections to wraparound services, bridging gaps veterans may encounter when accessing mental health services. The Navigator will refer within the County’s current mental health system of care and focus on building community partnerships to improve engagement outcomes for veterans, military members, and their families. Goals include enhancing access to care by linking veterans with existing mental health and case management services, while also fostering partnerships with service providers and higher education institutions.
“As a County, we are committed to reaching underrepresented communities to ensure equitable access to services, including our veterans,” said Supervisor Andrew Do, First District. “By providing linkages to mental health support, we aim to help veterans access the care they need.”
“Through targeted outreach and additional one-on-one case management resources, the County aims to improve the well-being of those who bravely served our country,” said Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Second District. “This grant will allow over 240 veterans to access vital mental health resources that will help them improve their lives and achieve greater stability.”
“This grant allows the County to expand services by linking veterans and their dependents to essential services through a case navigator,” said Supervisor Katrina Foley, Fifth District. “The number of veterans and their dependents accessing these resources must increase.”
For veterans and their dependents seeking assistance, please contact the Orange County Veterans Service Office at ocvso@occr.ocgov.com or (714) 480-6555. To meet with a Veterans Claims Representative, schedule an appointment at veterans.ocgov.com or walk in during VSO operating hours on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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About Orange County Veterans Service Office:
The Orange County Veterans Service Office is dedicated to providing comprehensive support and assistance to veterans, military members, and their families. Through advocacy, outreach, and collaboration with community partners, the VSO strives to ensure veterans receive the benefits and services they deserve.
Santa Ana, CA (June 18, 2024) —National Association of Counties (NACo) awarded eight County of Orange departments with a collective total of 20 achievement awards on June 7, 2024, in recognition ofvarious innovative county government programs.
County of Orange department programs that received NaCo Achievement Awards are as follows:
Arts, Culture and Historic Preservation
OC Community Resources – OC Parks
“Heritage and History at Fall-O-Ween”
Civic Education and Public Information
OC Child Support Services
“Community Ambassador Program”
Community and Economic Development
OC Waste & Recycling
“Senate Bill 1383 Procurement Program & Market Development Plan”
County Resiliency: Infrastructure, Energy, and Sustainability
OC Community Resources – OC Parks
“A Win-Win: Capistrano County Beach and Doheny State Beach Sand Replenishment Project”
Criminal Justice and Public Safety
OC Probation Department
“College Occupational Program (COP)”
“Orange County Juvenile Hall's Youth Council”
“Public Safety Academy”
Human Services
OC Community Resources – Office on Aging, and Social Services Agency
“Access to Technology – Bridging the Digital Divide”
OC Community Resources – OC Community Services/Workforce & Economic Development
“Career Preparation and Exploration for Justice-Involved Individuals”
OC Community Resources – Office on Aging, OC Community Services
“Senior Non-Emergency Medical Transportation”
OC Community Resources – OC Community Services/Workforce & Economic Development, and OC Veterans Service Office
“Veteran Employment Program”
Information Technology
OC Clerk-Recorder
“Bridging Distances for Love: Orange County Clerk-Recorder's Virtual Marriage Ceremony Initiative”
OC Auditor-Controller
“Employee Reimbursement System – OC METER (Mileage, Education, Travel Employee Reimbursement)”
Libraries
OC Community Resources – OC Public Libraries
“A Slice of Literary Orange: A Reimagined Speaker Series”
“Everything Teen at the Library”
“Lunch at the Library Reimagined”
Parks and Recreation
OC Community Resources – OC Parks
“Celebrating Fall-O-Ween in the Park”
“Climb, Crawl, and Discover - Habitat Adventure Trail”
The County of Orange is a regional service provider and planning agency whose core businesses include public safety, public health, environmental protection, regional planning, public assistance, social services and aviation. This includes 22 departments and over 17,000 employees serving with a commitment to make Orange County a safe, healthy, and fulfilling place to live, work, and play, today and for generations to come, by providing outstanding, cost-effective regional public services.
For more information about the County, visit ocgov.com.
(Santa Ana, CA)– The County of Orange Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a Master Services Agreement (MSA) with Mind OC, the 501C3 nonprofit organization which is the fiscal agent for public and private funds to support Be Well OC, on May 21, 2024. The approval allows Be Well OC to expand its provision of a wide range of critical and comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services to Orange County residents in collaboration with the OC Health Care Agency’s (HCA) Behavioral Health System.
“Orange County is a place where community members can find support, resources, and hope on their journey to mental health wellness. I am grateful we can extend the reach of our County’s Behavioral Health System,” said, Chairman Donald P. Wagner, OC Board of Supervisors, Third District. “Our expanding partnership with the Be Well campuses will provide best-in-class clinical services for mental health and substance use for children, adolescents, adults and families.”
Services funded under the MSA that will be provided at Be Well’s Irvine campus include:
Sobering Center
Adult Clinically Managed Withdrawal Management
Adult Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Residential Treatment
Adult Co-Occurring Residential Treatment
Adolescent Residential SUD Treatment
Perinatal SUD Residential Treatment
Adult Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU)
Children’s Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU)
“Orange County is leading the way in Behavioral Health with the expansion of Be Well OC, co-locating mental health care and substance use disorder services all under one roof -- something not yet done in the state,” said Vice Chairman Doug Chaffee, OC Board of Supervisors, Fourth District. “We are breaking down barriers towards accessing mental health services and serving as a model for other counties to build upon.”
The Irvine campus, currently under construction and scheduled to open in May 2025, has been supported through a variety of stakeholders and partners. The Board of Supervisors approved $40 million for the construction of the Irvine campus. In addition, $15 million was approved by the CalOptima Health Board of Directors, $37.6 million in Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) grant funding from the State of California (secured by the OC Health Care Agency), $12 million for capital was secured by Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, $2 million in Federal dollars was secured by Congressman Lou Correa (CA-46) in the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) omnibus appropriations bill, along with additional investments from MemorialCare, Hoag and Kaiser Permanente.
“In 2015, through the Orange County Board of Supervisors Mental Health Ad Hoc Committee, we reexamined local mental health services, leading to the creation of the first Be Well OC campus in Orange,” said Supervisor Andrew Do, First District. “With this second, substantially larger facility in Irvine, Be Well OC has solidified its place as a public-private partnership model for our state and the rest of the country.”
The Be Well OC Irvine campus is located on 22 acres of county-owned property that was deeded to the County of Orange as part of on the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro. The long-term vision for the Irvine Campus is to provide a full continuum of mental health, substance use, and wellness services for children, adolescents, families and adults in Orange County, from urgent care to residential treatment to community wellness support.
“Orange County has become a leader in transforming behavioral health care,” said Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Second District. "The new campus in Irvine, developed in partnership between the Orange County Health Care Agency and Mind OC, will help us fulfill our commitment to providing the quality treatment every patient deserves, regardless of their financial circumstances. I am pleased to see the expansion of these services, which will increase accessibility for everyone in need.”
The Campus will be developed in three areas, beginning with Area 1 which includes approximately 75,000 square feet of building space to house an array of adult services, including crisis stabilization mental health urgent care, a sobering center, and residential and outpatient programs. The community has been instrumental in identifying the types of services and programs needed to help children, adults and families reach their optimal mental health.
“Hope starts here in Orange County. Our vision for transforming the mental health system of care for South County’s children, youth and families continue to grow at the Be Well Irvine Campus,” said Supervisor Katrina Foley, Fifth District. “With doors opening next year, residents of all economic levels will soon have access to critical mental health and substance use treatment while offering a place for families to support their loved ones in crisis. This latest expansion of services at the Be Well Irvine Campus proves Orange County’s commitment to fostering health, wellness, and resiliency programs for our community.”
Area 2 is planned for child, youth, and perinatal specialty programming, expanding both residential and outpatient services capacity while supporting the entire family. Area 3 will expand opportunities for community connections by providing space for educational programs and classrooms, centralized support and navigation services, community meetings, faith and culture event space, and youth and senior centers.
“Be Well OC represents systems change that makes mental health care accessible to all,” said Rick Afable, MindOC Board Chair. “We appreciate County of Orange and the OC Health Care Agency leadership and the support of our many public, private, academic and faith-based partners who are part of the Be Well movement. The Board’s approval of the MSA accelerates the expansion of Be Well’s programs and services, building upon the success of those offered at our Orange campus. By incorporating additional mental health and substance use disorder programs tailored for children, adolescents, pregnant women and families, we will continue to change the conversation about mental health and wellness in Orange County and beyond.”
In addition to much needed clinical services, the Irvine location will provide wrap-around wellness support to families and the entire community, including a multi-entity health care collective integrating public and private health systems across Orange County with youth and community education and enrichment. Services will be available to all Orange County residents regardless of insurance or ability to pay.
"Our Be Well OC collaboration represents yet another crucial step forward in our continuing commitment to comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services for Orange County residents,” said, Dr. Veronica Kelley, OC Health Care Agency Director. “Partnering to provide a wide range of programs tailored to various age groups and needs, we are fostering a community where support and resources are readily accessible to all."
The Campus’ design is intentional - low density, modern, simple, warm and inviting—creating a sense of dignity, belonging and hope to those seeking help.
ABOUT THE OC HEALTH CARE AGENCY The OC Health Care Agency (HCA) is a regional interdisciplinary health jurisdiction and an accredited health department, charged with protecting and promoting individual, family and community health through partnership and coordination of public and private sector resources. HCA Behavioral Health Services’ mission is to prevent substance abuse and/or mental health crisis; when signs are present, to intervene early and appropriately; and when assessments indicate that treatment is required to provide the right type of treatment, at the right place, by the right person/program to help individuals achieve and maintain the highest quality of health and wellness. Visit www.ochealthinfo.com to learn more about services and resources. ABOUT BE WELL OC Be Well OC is a transformative initiative bringing together public, private, academic and faith-based organizations, as well as others, to create a coordinated system of mental health care and support for all Orange County residents. The Be Well OC mental health system, which also includes substance use services, features a world-class mental health and wellness facility in Orange and a robust mobile response program currently operating in seven cities and on UCI’s campus. Be Well OC’s movement spans across all cities of Orange County and a range of needs, from prevention and early intervention to crisis aversion, acute care and recovery. For more information visit bewelloc.org.
OC Residents and Boaters Invited to Properly Dispose of Expired Marine Flares for Free
Orange County, CA (June 13, 2024) – OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR) announces a one-day collection event for boaters and residents to safely dispose of marine flares at no cost on Saturday, June 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 592 Superior Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92663. The disposal of expired flares is crucial to mitigate health and safety risks associated with their presence. OC residents and boat owners are encouraged to participate in this important public service initiative.
According to Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW), an estimated 174,000 outdated flares are generated each year by recreational vessels in California. With this large number of unneeded flares generated annually in California, there is a strong need for public education and awareness about proper disposal as well as good disposal options. Marine flares and signal devices are categorized as explosives, posing challenges in their proper disposal. Currently there are no permitted facilities in California that can accept, treat and/or dispose of non-military explosive waste streams.
OCWR welcomes boaters to utilize this limited special opportunity. Participants are invited to transport expired flares in their vehicle trunks. Upon arrival at the drive-through event, designated staff will efficiently collect items from vehicles and securely store them for disposal.
“I invite Orange County residents and boaters to help us keep our oceans clean, and safely dispose of your marine flares at our convenient drive-through event hosted by OC Waste & Recycling,” said Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, Fifth District. “With 32 miles of coastline in the Fifth District, we must serve as excellent stewards of our coast to protect our oceans, vital marine ecosystems, and coastal way of life here in Orange County. I hope residents and boaters do their part and take advantage of this special opportunity to properly dispose of marine flares this month.”
Event Details
Date: Saturday, June 22
Time: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: 592 Superior Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Accepted items: Residential boater marine flares and smoke signals from Orange County residents.
Unaccepted items: No military-grade flares or household waste will be accepted.
"We are excited to organize this free collection event, contributing to the safe removal of hazardous flares from boats and preventing their entry into landfills, having the expired and unspent flares disposed of properly," stated Tom Koutroulis, Director of OC Waste & Recycling. "The disposal of marine flares often involves significant costs and regulatory hurdles. We are glad to offer this essential service to boaters across the County, to continue protecting public health and the environment."
It's important to note that only marine flares will be accepted at this disposal event. Items such as electronic flares, military-grade flares, and household hazardous waste such as paint, oil, e-waste, or batteries will not be accepted. For guidance on the proper disposal of household hazardous waste, visitors are encouraged to visit www.oclandfills.com/hazardous-waste. General recycling inquiries can be addressed at OCRecycleGuide.com.
The marine flare disposal event aligns with OCWR’s mission to ensure the safe and proper disposal of hazardous waste. Partner Dockwalkers, who are seasoned boating safety experts will be distributing complimentary boater kit coupons and flare discount coupons courtesy of The Coastal Commission. OC Healthcare Agency will also be present onsite to provide information on their free Bilge Pad Exchange program. For additional information, including resource recovery and waste disposal details, visit OCLandfills.com.
About OC Waste & Recycling (OCWR)
OCWR serves the County’s solid waste disposal needs by providing waste management services, operating public landfills, protecting the local environment, investing in renewable energy enterprises, and promoting recycling to ensure a safe and healthy community for current and future generations. The department manages one of the nation's premier solid waste disposal systems, three compost greeneries, all serving residents and businesses in the County’s 34 cities and unincorporated areas. OCWR’s three active landfills reflect environmental engineering at its best. Learn more by visiting the OCWR website at OCLandfills.com.
Santa Ana, CA –TheBridging Distances for Love: Clerk-Recorder’s Virtual Marriage Ceremony Initiative has been recognized with a 2024 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo). The award honors innovative and effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents.
The Orange County Clerk-Recorder's Virtual Marriage Ceremony Initiative facilitates remote participation in civil marriage ceremonies via live streaming technology. Designed to transcend geographical barriers, the program allows couples to invite family and friends from anywhere in the world to witness their special day in real-time. Couples visiting branch offices are offered the option to live stream their ceremony at no additional fee via Zoom and are provided a secure link to share with their invited guests for seamless connectivity. The initiative aims to enhance inclusivity, enabling couples to share their joyous occasion with loved ones who may be unable to attend physically due to health concerns or distance.
“I am humbled to receive this recognition,” said Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen. “Receiving this award highlights my dedicated staff’s commitment to thinking how best to serve our couples on their special day through the use of available technologies.”
Each year, NACo’s Achievement Awards recognize outstanding programming in 18 categories aligned with the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice and public safety, libraries, management, information technology, health, civic engagement and more. Launched in 1970, the program is designed to celebrate innovation in county government. Each nominated program is judged on its own merits and not against other applications.
“The Achievement Awards recognize excellence in county government and effective public service,” said NACo President Mary Jo McGuire. “This year’s winners have delivered results for our residents and demonstrated innovative efforts to strengthen our communities.”
For any questions, please call the department’s information line at (714) 834-2500 during normal business hours Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays.
For media inquiries, please contact Billy Le at 714-834-2248.
