Vision and Guiding Principles

DHS Vision

To create an accessible, culturally competent, integrated and comprehensive human services system that ensures individually tailored, seamless and holistic services to Allegheny County residents, in particular, the county's vulnerable populations.

DHS Values

Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) is here to support people during their most vulnerable times, providing them with services and support that prevent and resolve crises. Guided by a “no wrong door” approach, we ensure that individuals and families can access the help they need, wherever they first seek it. With humility, we listen and respond to the unique challenges our community members face, fostering a culture of safety where everyone feels respected and secure. We help children and youth grow up safe and healthy and we assist adults in living more securely and independently. Through these efforts, the human services we plan, fund, and deliver are helping individuals and families in Allegheny County to thrive.

These efforts are grounded in a set of five core values that guide our approach to serving the community:

• Equity: The practice of ensuring fairness by recognizing and addressing the unique needs, challenges, and circumstances of individuals or groups.
• Kindness: The act of treating people with empathy and respect, going out of your way to offer support, encouragement, or help without expecting anything in return.
• Accountability: The act of taking ownership of one’s actions, decisions, and consequences.
• Collaboration: The act of working together toward a common goal by sharing ideas, resources, and responsibilities.
• Continuous Learning: The commitment to ongoing personal and professional growth by seeking knowledge, developing skills, and adapting to new challenges.

Learn more about what our values mean and how we implement them.(PDF, 97KB)