Youth Ombudsman

The Youth Ombudsman investigates complaints about the children services system. The Youth Ombudsman receives complaints directly from youth or from adults on behalf of youth. During the session, the Youth Ombudsman will provide an overview of the complaint and investigative process; share the mission and vision of the office; and provide an opportunity for participants to think critically about real-life scenarios and how the Youth Ombudsman might be able to help.

Jenny Stotts is Ohio’s first Youth Ombudsman, serving youth across the state. She was appointed in May 2022 by Governor Mike DeWine to lead the youth team in the newly launched Youth and Family Ombudsmen Office. She is a licensed social worker and an advocate for those who often go unheard. She describes herself simply as: Mother, Wife, Friend, Social Worker, and Troublemaking Millennial.

Upon completion of this session, participants will:

1. understand the duties and responsibilities of the Youth Ombudsman.
2. identify methods for contacting the Youth Ombudsman to file complaints directly or on behalf of other parties.
3. understand the scope of the mandate that guides the Youth Ombudsman.
4. understand the goals, structure and processes of the Youth Ombudsman.

This training has been partially funded through a contract between Ohio CASA and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. OHIO CASA supports local CASA/GAL programs throughout Ohio with training, technical assistance, legislative support, and standards implementation so volunteers may advocate for abused, neglected, and dependent children in the court system.