Recognition in human services isn’t easy to earn.
It takes commitment, collaboration, and a relentless focus on improving outcomes for the people and families who rely on these essential services.
That’s why we’re excited to congratulate Park County Human Services on receiving the 2025 Colorado C-Stat Distinguished Performance Award from the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). The award recognizes excellence in timeliness, safety, and accuracy, highlighting agencies that demonstrate outstanding performance in serving their communities. In 2025, Park County achieved 80.7% of its C-Stat goals, earning this distinguished recognition.
“This award reflects the dedication of our Human Services team and their commitment to helping the citizens of Park County access the resources they need to support their families, stay safe, and build greater stability and independence,” said Shay Taylor, Director of Human Services.
A Journey of Continuous Improvement
Awards like this aren’t the result of a single initiative or one year’s worth of work.
According to former Human Services Director Susie Walton Duchmann, Park County’s progress has been years in the making:
- SFY24: Marginal Performer
- SFY25: Most Improved County
- 2025: C-Stat Distinguished Performer
That kind of sustained improvement speaks to strong leadership, dedicated staff, and a culture committed to continually finding better ways to serve children, families, and the broader community.
As Susie shared with our team, “Traverse and Case Aide Services are greatly aiding in that effort,” noting that both have supported the county’s ongoing improvement alongside numerous organizational initiatives.
We appreciate her perspective, while recognizing that achievements like this are driven first and foremost by the people doing the work every day.
Why This Recognition Matters
The Colorado C-Stat program is designed to help counties measure and improve performance in ways that directly impact the people they serve. As CDHS Deputy Executive Director of Community Partnerships Minna Castillo shared:
“The successful achievement of county goals translates directly into meeting the vital needs of individuals and families within their communities.”
We couldn’t agree more.
Behind every performance metric is a child, a family, or an individual receiving services more effectively because dedicated professionals continue striving to improve.
Proud to Be Part of the Journey
At Northwoods, we believe technology and services are at their best when they support the people doing the work, not replace them.
That’s why it’s especially meaningful to celebrate agencies like Park County that continue investing in improvement, embracing innovation, and finding new ways to better serve their communities.
Congratulations to Shay Taylor, the entire Park County Human Services team, and everyone who contributed to this remarkable achievement.
We look forward to seeing what comes next.
