Office of Community Engagement

The Office of Community Engagement (OCE) is composed of specific areas serving as a bridge between human services providers, non-profit organizations, private entities, and communities throughout the state. The mission of OCE is to listen to and educate the community regarding DES services and advocate for our clients. To achieve this mission, OCE was strategically developed to include Community Engagement, the Office of the Ombudsman, the Office of Tribal Relations, and the Volunteer Engagement Center.

Community Engagement Team

The Community Engagement Team connects with human services providers throughout the State with the goal of building relationships, sharing information, and improving access to DES Programs and Services.

Office of the Ombudsman

The Office of the Ombudsman offers assistance to clients who are experiencing issues with DES programs and services and have been unable to locate or work through the designated processes to address their concerns. Every concern is used as the voice of the customer while helping DES identify and address potential barriers in the process.

Office of Tribal Relations

The Office of Tribal Relations (OTR) serves as the point of contact to address and assist with the needs of Arizona’s 22 Federally-Recognized American Indian Tribes. OTR provides guidance and support to DES on human services policy issues with a specific focus on Tribal Government consultation and cultural awareness.

Volunteer Engagement Center

The Volunteer Engagement Center strives to improve and promote the productivity and quality of DES services by meeting the demands for human services and resources through volunteerism and community service.