Leveraging Technology for Better Community Outcomes at #MACoCon

Leveraging technological innovation in human services enhances the time available for direct, person-to-person interactions across the social needs spectrum.

Counties provide services to residents across a vast spectrum of needs. Basic necessities like food, shelter, transportation, and family support services can make the difference in establishing positive long-term outcomes for resource-scarce communities. When implemented properly, technology can help deliver services and track progress across agencies and cases. Experts discuss leveraging internal and external tools to produce meaningful outcomes for residents.

Panelists discuss challenges with technology in human services, including digital literacy and the skills gap, health-related barriers, privacy and security concerns, and the cost and accessibility of devices. Amy Olack, Executive Director at Washington County Commission on Aging, discussed combatting the challenges technology can create for older adults by making it easy to use, easy to set up, accessible via mobile app, wireless, voice-activated, and discreet product design.

Description: Although technological advancements can represent disruption in the way work is completed, it can also accelerate impact when leveraged effectively. Human service programs are instrumental in lifting residents out of difficult circumstances and helping them stay that way. Increased capacity, broader reach, and faster outcomes have the potential to eliminate more suffering, quickly. AI-enabled efficiencies can empower human services employees to focus even more on the human-to-human aspect with integrated technologies handling more of the administrative work. With additional bandwidth for the more sensitive and nuanced aspects of their roles, these professionals can have more meaningful interactions with the community that build trust, engagement, hope, and lasting outcomes.

Speakers:

  • Demaune Millard – Chief Executive Officer, Family League Baltimore
  • Amy Olack – Executive Director, Washington County Commission on Aging
  • Walter Simmons – President, Employee Prince George’s, Prince George’s County

Moderator: The Honorable Jheanelle Wilkins, Maryland House of Delegates