Public Awareness

DHS Educational/Awareness Efforts and Campaigns

DHS engages in several efforts each year to raise awareness of issues important to County residents. Learn about these campaigns on this page.

Stay up-to-date on DHS’s awareness efforts by following us on Facebook and Twitter.

Current Awareness Efforts

DHS Equity Speaker Series (Ongoing)

The DHS Equity Speaker Series is an avenue for DHS to actively support conversations about racial equity which is part of our theory of change to advance racial equity.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (March)

Highlighting the many ways in which people with and without disabilities come together to form strong, diverse communities.

Child Abuse Prevention Month (April)

Each April, the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) and A Child's Place, with the support of other community partners, launch a campaign to raise awareness about the need to prevent child abuse.

For over a decade, the campaigns have strategically focused on a number of important child protection and safety concerns affecting Allegheny County. Some have focused attention on a particular form of abuse that finds its way into tragic headlines. Some have aimed to reach the general public with the message that "preventing child abuse is a community responsibility." All have offered helpful supports and resources.

Additional Resources

Older Americans Month (May)

Connecting those over the age of 60 to the services and supports they need to thrive.

Mental Health Awareness Month (May)

Shining a spotlight on mental health and connecting people with resources.

Past Awareness Efforts

Family Strengthening Events

Highlighting DHS’s commitment to safe and loving homes for children.

Child Development

Offering tips to parents and caregivers to help children prepare for school and life.

Disability

Focusing attention on the rights and concerns of persons with differing abilities.

Recovery (Mental Health and Substance Use)

Recognizing that recovery from mental illness and substance use disorder is possible.

Self-Help

Promoting Allegheny County’s peer support and volunteer groups.