County Receives National Recognition for 54 Programs
Last updated 11/9/2023 at 12:43pm
The County of San Diego won 54 Achievement Awards this year for standout programs from the National Association of Counties, which recognizes excellence in county government.
The County won awards in 15 categories including county resiliency, human services, information technology, health, community and economic development, criminal justice and public safety, children and youth, risk and emergency management, and civic education and public information.
“I am proud of our county employees that show up every day to meet the needs of our communities. This is a well-deserved recognition of the work we are doing and the high standard we strive for in delivering services and resources in San Diego County.” Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Nora Vargas said. “I am especially proud that many of the programs recognized reflect our commitment to transformational work that puts equity and inclusivity at the forefront. I see you and celebrate you! ¡Enhorabuena!”
Featured below are just providing a small sample of how the County is responding to emerging issues and priorities.
The County’s yearly online report highlights the County’s accomplishments and goals to deliver essential services, and use funds responsibly for health and social services, public safety and land use. The interactive, engaging and accessible report, produced by the County Communications Office, invited the public to “Connect With Us to Build a Better Future” and focused priority projects that the public can help shape and influence through community engagement.
A new policy developed by the Health and Human Services Agency requiring daily document translation services and culturally responsive communications was expanded to include all departments and is helping the County reach people who did not previously have access to information.
A new tool developed by the Office of Sustainability and Environmental Justice called StoryMap allows people to go online and express the environmental health concerns they see in neighborhoods. This information is layered with socioeconomic data such as race and income using mapping tools. This combined information better guides planning, advocacy and education in communities.
In support of San Diego’s diverse region and new arrivals, the San Diego Sheriff’s Department collaborated with the International Rescue Committee, a resettlement agency, to create and provide “What to Expect” monthly public presentations for refugee newcomers in their native languages. The presentations are focused on basic public safety education and creating an environment of inclusivity for newcomers.
The full list of programs that won 2023 Achievement Awards is below:
Comprehensive Broadband Plan – $10 Million Capital Emergency Housing Solutions Grant Program
A Systems-Focused Approach to Enhancing Behavioral Health Care
Apiary Training Video
Beach & Bay Program DDPCR Testing
Bridging the Digital Divide to Promote Social Inclusion
Career Days: Information Sessions Series – HHSA HR The Knowledge Center
Community Care Coordination Straight to Home Program
Community Harm Reduction Team and Harm Reduction Interim Shelter
Community Health Worker Model: A Pathway to Equity
Compassionate Leadership Toolkit and Workshop – HHSA HR The Knowledge Center
Cooperative Grant for Removal of Trees Infested with Fusarium Fungus and ISHB
Crisis Stabilization Unit Services
Detector Dog Team Training Innovations
Developing the San Diego Native Landscape Program to Foster Environmental Stewardship
Email Encryption Training – HHSA HR The Knowledge Center
Emergency Operations Center Playbook
Experience the Outdoors Program
Green Streets Clean Water Plan
Guns for Gift Cards
HHSA New Supervisor Onboarding – HHSA HR The Knowledge Center
Homeless Pop-Up Resource Fairs
Housing and Disability Advocacy Program
Ildica County Park
Incorporating Equity into A Local Roadway Safety Plan
Integrated Pest Management Rodenticide Pilot
Justice-Involved Parents & Children Program
Let’s Get Out There: A Guide for Collective Climate Action Across Our Region
Live Well Through Self-Care Wellness Workshop Series – HHSA HR The Knowledge Center
Magnolia Safe Parking Program
Maintenance Gardener Community Needs Assessment
Meaningful Engagement through Regional Community Coordination
Mexican Fruit Fly Hold Notices
Mobile Crisis Response Team
No-Cost Senior Transportation Program
Optimal Care Pathways Model
Organic Materials Ordinance Update
Peer Reentry Leadership Academy
Plan Check Inquiry Form
Population Health Unit
POS Scanner App
Preventing Pet Overpopulation through Accessible Spay/Neuter
Southeastern Live Well Center Input Tours – Creating Space With Community
Subcontractor Disclosure
Supporting Staff in Changing Work Environment During the Pandemic & Beyond
Tech Connect
The Southeastern Live Well Center Project
Time Accounting Query
Transportation Study Guide
Youth-Led Town Halls
“What to Expect” Safety Courses for Refugees
County Annual Report – Connect With Us to Build a Better Future
Environmental Justice StoryMap for the San Diego Region
Equity in Communication: Translation, Language & Culture Connection Program