Where I Stand — Mike O’Callaghan: Caring for our children

Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2000 | 9:47 a.m.

Mike O'Callaghan is the Las Vegas Sun executive editor.

Watching local and state services for children has long been of great importance to me. After serving as Clark County's first director of juvenile court services and Nevada's first director of the state department now known as human resources, this is to be expected.

Some of our best and most dedicated public servants work in this field providing services and protection for the most vulnerable members of society. One such person I'll never forget is the late Nancy Williams. "Big Mama" was not only a good friend, employee and protector of the little ones, she was also a community leader. She promoted human rights and other worthwhile causes by example. She was truly a special lady.

Last week, after 32 years of outstanding public service, Iman Posey retired from Child Haven. "Miss Iman," like "Big Mama," has gained the affections of thousands of youngsters over the past three decades. According to those closest to her, "She will be best remembered for the special talent and skill she had in working with very vulnerable and hurting children. She will also be sorely missed by her staff and co-workers who love and respect her for her loyal support of them and for her dedication to children."

Better yet, let a 16-year-old resident of Child Haven tell us about Miss Iman.

"I remember the first time I really had gotten to know you. I had an allergy attack, remember? Since that day, I have been astounded at your smile, sense of style, and always open for a hug! You say you're old-fashioned, but I don't see it, but just the same I respect you. Since the time that I met you, I have learned to respect and trust you.

"God has blessed Child Haven immensely for placing you at Child Haven 32 years ago. This campus is losing one of the best, and that is the truth. I want to thank you for having touched the lives of the young in the past. Bless you for your unconditional love! Though you are retiring, you still have the chance to touch others. Don't miss that opportunity! Don't let your candle flame dim low, because you have spread your light in the deepest and the darkest spots of our hearts."

Every now and then every Nevadan should take time to thank people like Iman Posey, who do so much for so many with so little appreciation shown by the public. Their rewards are the love they generate in the hearts and souls of those who need their warmth and understanding.

Last week this column related the improvements of services for children made in Washoe County following a shocking 1995 grand jury report. Closer to home the Children's Advocacy Alliance here in Clark County is working to improve these services before such a report is necessary. Many of the ideas of the alliance will be presented to the 2001 Nevada Legislature and the Clark County Commission. Will these recommendations wither and die like many past good ideas have fallen by the wayside?

A recent editorial in the Los Angeles Times newspaper is titled "Foster Care: Studied to Death." This follows the results of another six-month study by a task force and the deaths of three foster children in three months last year. All of this was preceded by three audits and a grand jury report in 1996. Now it's about time for action and the editorial makes it clear:

"Enough. The problems have been clearly outlined and are mirrored around the nation. Among them is that foster family agencies have a disincentive to carefully study placements since quick placements keep the funds rolling in. Other problems include inadequate tracking systems, failure to detect early signs of child abuse in foster homes and the fact that few operators appear to be firmly penalized for egregious errors."

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