Throughout 2024, Social Current continued its efforts to activate the power of the social sector and effect broader systemic change in support of an equitable society where all people can thrive. In collaboration with our network and partners, we focused on strengthening our influence, our voices, and our impact.

We are grateful to have your support as we continue to strengthen and amplify the work of the social sector to facilitate impact and systemic change through our core solutions and impact areas.

Our 2024 Year in Review features:

Download the full report.

On May 2, President Donald Trump released the administration’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026, highlighting significant spending cuts to domestic programs. While presidential budgets outline policy priorities, Congress is not obligated to adopt them.

The proposal calls for more than $163 billion in cuts to non-defense spending, with major reductions targeting child welfare, education, and public health programs.

Key proposed cuts include:

  • $26 billion from the State Rental Assistance Block Grant
  • $3.3 billion from the Community Development Block Grant
  • $1 billion from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
  • $674 million from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Program Management
  • $315 million reduction in Preschool Development Grants
  • $4 billion from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
  • $770 million from the Community Services Block Grant
  • $425 million from the Commodity Supplemental Food Program

Congressional Republicans aim to pass appropriations legislation by July 4, ahead of the Sept. 30 fiscal year deadline.

President Trump Signs Executive Orders on Education and Immigration

Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for Youth

On April 23, President Trump signed an executive order establishing an Artificial Intelligence Education Task Force. The initiative aims task force is to highlight student and educator achievements in artificial intelligence (AI) and promote the adoption of emerging technology nationwide.

The order directs the secretary of education to prioritize AI integration in discretionary grant programs, including efforts to improve teacher training, evaluation, and professional development. It also encourages states and grantees to use Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funds to support AI skills development and work-based learning.

Amending School Discipline Policies

In a separate executive order issued the same day, President Trump directed the secretary of education and the attorney general to collaborate with governors and state attorneys general to prevent racial discrimination in school discipline practices.

The order requires the Department of Education to report on what it calls the “discriminatory-equity-ideology-based” policies. The report must include an inventory and analysis of Title VI discipline investigations, model policies, and the role of federally funded nonprofits in promoting these approaches. It must also include recommendations to restrict federal funding for organizations that promote such discipline and behavior modification practices.

Reforming Accreditation in Higher Education

Also on April 23, President Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Education to hold accreditors of higher education institutions accountable violations of federal law or failing to meet recognition criteria. The order flags equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) requirements for institutions as grounds for monitoring, suspension, or termination of accreditor recognition.

Following the order, the department released a Dear Colleague Letter providing updated guidance for accrediting agencies.

Enforcement of Federal Immigration Law

On April 28, President Trump signed an executive order directing the attorney general and secretary of homeland security to publish a list of states and local jurisdictions that do not comply with federal immigration law. Noncompliant jurisdictions may face legal action, loss of federal funds, and other enforcement measures.

White House Releases Report on Executive Order Targeting Gender-Affirming Care

The White House released a report detailing initial steps to implement Executive Order 14187, titled “Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation.” The order prohibits federal departments from funding, sponsoring, assisting, or facilitating gender affirming care. Key actions outlined in the report include:

  • The DOJ has drafted legislation, pending further review, that would create a private right of action for children and parents seeking legal recourse for medical interventions related to gender-affirming care
  • The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has eliminated 215 grants to prevent federally funded research or education from contributing to gender-affirming care
  • Federal health contractors and insurers covering the civilian workforce are removing gender-affirming care as a covered benefit
  • The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued guidance  enforcing protections against female genital mutilation and will convene state attorneys general to coordinate enforcement efforts

ACF Updates Payment Processing Requirements to Improve Accountability

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) has announced updates to its payment processing procedures aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in the use of federal funds.

Organizations using the Payment Management System are now required to provide detailed explanations for payment requests at the subaccount level. Federal awarding agencies will review these justifications and may request additional information or approve based on the details provided.

ACF advised grantees to anticipate potential payment delays by increasing the lead time between the organization’s financial need and the payment request. Additionally, grantees are encouraged to:

  • Consolidate subaccounts within the same program area where possible
  • Submit payment requests that include only one awarding agency
  • Limit the number of grant subaccounts and group subaccounts

Head Start Encourages Family-Centered Program Design

The House and Senate passed a budget framework along partisan lines, completing the first step of budget reconciliation. The plan inThe Office of Head Start has released an information memorandum urging programs to promote parent choice in early education. Programs are encouraged to participate in state and local efforts that coordinate enrollment and services across early care and education systems.

The memorandum recommends engaging families to shape and refine program models, ensuring offerings align with community needs and support informed family decisions. Programs are also encouraged re-evaluate partnerships, particularly with community and faith-based organizations, to expand options and improve access for families.

Office of Child Care Promotes Use of CCDF for Expanded Choice

The Office of Child Care (OCC) issued an information memorandum outlining strategies to use the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) to enhance educational choice. Recommendations include:

  • Expanding the use of CCDF certificates to include faith-based and private school-affiliated providers
  • Supporting mixed delivery systems that incorporate diverse provider types
  • Enhancing access to before- and after-school care, wraparound services, and flexible scheduling

OCC also emphasized the importance of improving transparency, such as providing accessible provider information and streamlining enrollment processes to help families make informed decisions.

HHS Highlights Progress Under Trump Administration

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a summary of its key initiatives during the first 100 days of President Trump’s administration. Secretary Kennedy highlighted the following actions as central to reducing chronic illness and improving public health:

  • Expanded efforts to investigate the environmental contributors to rising autism rates, alongside a push for greater transparency and urgency in related research
  • Establishment of the Make America Healthy Again Commission
  • Launch of Operation Stork Speed to investigate options for safe, reliable, and nutritious infant formula

HHS Releases Review on Gender Dysphoria Treatments for Youth

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health and the Office of Population Affairs, released a comprehensive review of medical interventions for children and adolescents with gender dysphoria.

The report raises concerns about the risks associated with puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries, while noting the broader mental health challenges facing adolescents. It also highlights a lack of research on psychotherapeutic approaches for treating gender dysphoria in youth.

Updates from the Judiciary 

Supreme Court Reviews ACA Preventive Care Coverage Mandate

On April 21, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case challenging the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) mandate requiring health insurers and group plans to cover preventive services at no cost to patients. At issue is the constitutionality of delegating authority to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which determines the list of required services.

The USPSTF—a panel of independent experts appointed to four-year terms—has recommended coverage for services such as cancer screenings, substance use disorder evaluations, statin use, and HPV vaccinations. The legal challenge stems from the task force’s recommendation to include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication that prevents HIV, prompting Texas employers and individuals to file suit.

Plaintiffs argue the task force’s authority is unconstitutional because its members are neither presidentially appointed nor Senate-confirmed. Federal officials counter that the Secretary of Health and Human Services maintains ultimate authority by appointing and removing task force members and approving or rejecting its recommendations.

The Court is expected to rule in June. The decision could significantly affect the future of preventive care coverage under the ACA.

Federal Courts Block Enforcement of EDI-Related Funding Threats in Schools

Three federal judges have ruled against a Feb. 14 Dear Colleague Letter from the U.S. Department of Education that threatened to revoke Title I funding from schools maintaining equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) programs.

Chief Judge Landya B. McCafferty of the U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire found the guidance unconstitutionally vague, noting its lack of definitions for EDI programs or the criteria for alleged violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. Similar concerns were raised by U.S. District Judge Dabney L. Friedrich of the District of Columbia.

Judge Paula Xinis of the District of Maryland issued a temporary stay preventing the administration from enforcing the funding threats. The ruling also paused compliance certification requirements for affected schools. Additionally, Judge McCafferty blocked enforcement against plaintiffs and their members, including the National Education Association, its New Hampshire affiliate, and the Center for Black Educator Development.

Subscribe to the Policy and Advocacy Radar to receive our biweekly policy roundup, which includes commentary on issues in Social Current’s federal policy agenda, opportunities to take action, and curated news and opportunities.

Unprecedented. It’s an adjective that has increased in popularity over the past several years. As a clinical social worker with a background in mental health, this term has taken on new meaning. The COVID-19 pandemic was frequently referred to as unprecedented. The current political environment also has been referred to as unprecedented. Synonymous words could include things like uncertain, unpredictable, and scary, all of which have an impact on our mental health.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it serves as an important reminder that mental health challenges are common, affecting one in five people each year, and are treatable. There has been increasing recognition that maintaining good mental health is a key component of overall health and well-being and some declines in stigma associated with specific mental health conditions in more recent years. We all need to recognize that mental health challenges are common, often have biological origins, and are a normal reaction to environmental and social conditions.

With the constant barrage of information and a steady cadence of news available to all of us, it’s easy to begin feeling anxious, sad, overwhelmed, or angry, to name just a few of the more common emotions. Unfortunately, we are surrounded by negative information that can easily erode our feelings of stability and well-being. Under these conditions, it’s important to regularly check in on yourself, your friends, colleagues, and loved ones because social connections and relationships are one of the strongest protective factors. There are easy ways to do that, whether it is a simple phone call or get together, or a free, quick, anonymous screening. In addition, there are a range of tools and resources right at our fingertips that can support our mental well-being. We all need to promote positive mental health and normalize when our or other’s mental health is declining.

We also need to help ensure that society prioritizes mental health and take action. Current congressional deliberations and discussions could significantly impact the resources that support mental health including possible reductions to Medicaid and Medicare or elimination of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), the restructuring of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), or changes to the Mental Health, Substance Use or Social Service block grant programs.

At Social Current, our federal public policy agenda includes several key mental health-related priorities including advocating for funding and legislation that supports suicide prevention hotlines and protecting Medicaid funding, which supports nearly 20% of the U.S. population. Many people are unclear how easy it can be to take action and engage in advocacy for things that are important to us. Making calls, sending emails, and sending emails to your senators and representatives are easy activities with ready-made scripts and automated processes readily available. For more information on how you can take action, check out these resources from Social Current, Mental Health America, and National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s all be sure to take good care of ourselves, take good care of our loved ones, and take action to promote and protect mental wellness for everyone.

As the second quarter of 2025 begins, the social sector is navigating a complex landscape of both opportunities and challenges, requiring organizations to proactively engage in trend inquiry and scenario planning. While increased institutional trust, community partnerships, and technology integration present positive trends, funding threats, rapid policy shifts, and workforce cuts and shortages pose significant risks.

To effectively strategize, organizations must identify relevant trends, analyze their potential impacts, and understand their implications for community well-being.

Social Current has released a new trend report on topics that our subject matter experts and Knowledge and Insights Center staff will be following closely in the second quarter of 2025:

  • Government affairs and advocacy including federal budget updates, budget reconciliation, and executive orders
  • Sector leadership including navigating the evolving legal environment around equity, diversity, and inclusion; leading through uncertainty; and succession planning
  • Financial matters including financial anxiety and threats and how foundations and major donors are responding
  • Risk management including assessment and mitigation and disaster planning
  • Workforce including positive impact of hybrid work formats on engagement, staffing shortages, and need to focus on workforce well-being
  • Technology including telehealth utilization and technology risks

Download the full trend report for insight and related Social Current solutions.

Specialized Research Tools for Human and Social Services

Social Current’s Knowledge and Insights Center offers a robust resources portal, which includes a digital clearinghouse library with over 20,000 records; aggregated research and business databases; diverse topic collections and library guides; original content summarizing complex information; and coaching that helps users maximize these resources.

As you plan for 2025 and beyond, make sure you’re utilizing all the tools in your toolbox. For more information about available tools and support, visit our website or contact the Knowledge and Insights Center.

As we reflect on Earth Day and our role in advancing equity and sustainability, the wisdom found in Robin Wall Kimmerer’s Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants offers a grounding perspective. Kimmerer, a Potawatomi botanist and professor, blends Indigenous teachings with scientific knowledge to call for a more reciprocal relationship with the natural world, one rooted in gratitude, humility, and care. These teachings remind us that addressing environmental harm is not just a technical or economic issue, but a deeply moral one. As stewards of human and community well-being, those of us in the social sector are called to confront the extractive systems that prioritize profit and consumption over people and planet. Recognizing these patterns is the first step in shifting toward a future grounded in justice, sustainability, and interdependence.

Environmental Injustice and Social Determinants of Health

Environmental injustice refers to the disproportionate exposure of marginalized communities to environmental hazards and the unequal distribution of environmental benefits. The environmental justice movement gained national attention in 1982 in Warren County, North Carolina, when a predominantly African American community protested the disposal of toxic PCB-contaminated soil in their area. The protest brought attention to the systemic placement of hazardous waste sites in minority and low-income neighborhoods, leading to broader recognition of environmental racism.

Social determinants of health (SDOH) are the non-medical factors influencing health outcomes, encompassing the conditions in which individuals are born, grow, live, work, and age. These determinants include economic stability, access to quality education and health care, neighborhood and built environment, and social and community context. Addressing the SDOH is crucial for promoting health equity, as they significantly impact quality-of-life and health outcomes.

The intersection of environmental injustice and SDOH is clear—communities facing environmental hazards often experience adverse social determinants, compounding health disparities and deepening systemic inequities.

Environmental Justice in Social Work Practice

A recent study across three states revealed that social workers frequently encounter environmental injustice in their work. Nearly 75% of participants reported working with clients facing poor food access, almost 60% addressed issues related to extreme cold, and 44% supported individuals with inadequate access to green space. Other concerns, such as air pollution and water contamination, were also reported, though less frequently. Despite recognizing these environmental challenges, many social workers felt unprepared to address them effectively. These findings underscore the urgent need to integrate environmental justice into social work education and practice, ensuring that professionals are equipped to advocate for policies and interventions that promote health and equity for all communities.

The emergence of green social work is reshaping the conversation around the intersection of social issues and environmental sustainability. This evolving branch of social work directly addresses the declining stability of our environment and its far-reaching impacts on human well-being. This framework encourages social workers to examine not only the “person-in-environment,” but the “environment-in-person.” By doing so, it emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to both social and environmental justice, urging professionals to understand the reciprocal relationship between communities and the natural world.

However, as communities adopt green initiatives—such as expanding green spaces, improving walkability, and implementing sustainability projects—social workers must also be vigilant about the risk of green gentrification. Research has shown that environmental improvements can inadvertently lead to displacement as property values rise, often pushing out longtime residents and further entrenching social inequities. To prevent this, social workers must advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to environmental benefits while protecting vulnerable populations from displacement.

With the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters and environmental degradation, integrating green social work into practice is crucial for fostering resilience and ensuring a more just and sustainable future. As environmental issues continue to intersect with social determinants of health, social workers must be prepared to advocate for and implement solutions that protect both the environment and the communities most affected by its decline. Incorporating environmental justice into social work not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes long-term sustainability for future generations, creating a more equitable foundation for all.

Next Steps for a More Sustainable Future

Moving toward a more sustainable and equitable society requires confronting the systems that prioritize consumption and profit over community and ecological well-being. As social workers, it is essential to lead the charge in advocating for systemic change—addressing the deeply embedded structures of inequality that perpetuate environmental harm. This includes pushing for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of marginalized communities, such as stronger regulations on toxic waste sites, better access to clean water, and the expansion of green spaces in underserved areas. Additionally, social workers can advocate for community-based solutions that promote resilience, sustainability, and self-determination, helping communities build capacity to address both environmental and social challenges.

On an individual level, we should also examine our own behaviors and the ways we contribute to systems of overconsumption. Social workers can model and promote sustainable practices in their daily lives, from reducing waste to supporting local, sustainable businesses. By integrating these values into our practice, education, and advocacy, we can begin to shift societal norms toward a future that values environmental health and equity. In doing so, we can help create a world where the destructive forces of greed and scarcity are replaced with a culture of stewardship, justice, and collective well-being.

To learn more about Social Current’s work in Child, Family, and Community Well-Being, visit our impact area page.

The important work of creating an equitable society where all people can thrive cannot be achieved without the support of diverse community-based partnerships. Global Volunteer Month, celebrated in April, is a time to acknowledge and celebrate partners that donate time, resources, and expertise to make a difference in our communities. 

Social Current is grateful for its corporate social responsibility partners, which bolster our network’s impact by engaging teams of corporate volunteers and generously donating resources. 

Aramark 

Social Current is grateful for our 17-year partnership with Aramark. Rooted in service and united by purpose, Aramark strives to do great things for its employees, partners, communities, and planet. Their global volunteer program, Aramark Building Community, engages the talents and passions of employees to provide skill development for careers in hospitality, increase access to healthy food, and support sustainable environments. The program builds stronger communities, creates employee volunteer opportunities, and encourages employees to give back to their local communities. 

Social Current network organization Southeast Community Services in Indianapolis has benefited from volunteers’ contributions. Aramark employees provide gifts, toys, clothes, and soup kits for the holidays. In addition, volunteers returned April 10 for ABC Day, Aramark’s Global Day of Service, to support 1,000 local children, their families, and outside/unhoused neighbors by assembling kits with snacks and hygiene items. They built new picnic tables, revitalized outdoor areas, and painted the community center’s common areas.  

“We deeply appreciate the work of the Aramark employees in supporting our community. The snack packs they put together will be a significant help in feeding our neighbors, and their painting efforts are instrumental in creating a warm and welcoming space for all who come through our doors,” said Peggy Frame, executive director of Southeast Community Services. 
 

Additionally, Chicago-based Social Current network organization Lawrence Hall expressed gratitude for the relationship with Aramark volunteers. Volunteer Coordinator Francesca Valenziano shared, “The entire Lawrence Hall team is incredibly grateful for this continued partnership with Aramark. The amount of volunteerism and projects they have initiated for our campuses, youth, and staff is astounding!”   

In December, volunteers coordinated a holiday party, meal, and visit from Santa for Lawrence Hall’s youth and staff in residential care. In addition, Aramark volunteers are participating in a beautification and renovation project at one of Lawrence Hall’s Transitional Living program sites, ensuring the youth and staff have a nurturing and comfortable environment to spend their time. 

Bank of America 

Social Current is in its fifth year of partnering with Bank of America’s Parents and Caregivers Network (PCN). We’ve connected local chapters to Social Current network organizations for engagement opportunities.  

Bank of America’s PCN in Fort Worth, Texas, volunteered its time at Social Current network organization ACH Child and Family Services, also in Fort Worth. The volunteers cleaned roughly a dozen vans used to transport homeless, abandoned, runaway and trafficked youth.   

“Our kids have been through a lot and being driven in a clean van shows people care,” says Megan Ball, volunteer services manager for ACH. “We so appreciate our Bank of America volunteers who worked hard to teach young people that if you want to be your best, you have to look your best.” 
 
Additionally, the New York PCN donated over 3000 pairs of socks to Villa of Hope in Rochester, New York, and the PCN in Dallas volunteered its time at Social Current network organization Jewish Family Services of Greater Dallas, distributing food to members of the community facing food insecurity. By sorting donations, restocking shelves, and shopping with clients, Bank of America volunteers helped JFS community members maintain a level of dignity and respect, while getting the food they need.  

CSC ServiceWorks 

Since 2021, Social Current has partnered with CSC ServiceWorks, the leading provider of laundry solutions and air vending services throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe. 

CSC CommunityWorks’ Signature Services program works with community organizations to provide reliable access to clean laundry and basic supports. They believe access to clean laundry is essential to helping people be successful in school and work as well as to maintain healthy lifestyles. CSC teams support their local community-based organizations by providing washer, dryer, air, and vacuum equipment; ongoing service for these machines; and volunteer support. By donating washers, dryers, and ongoing equipment maintenance, CSC helps strengthen the capacity of Social Current partners that are providing essential services. 

Since the inception of the partnership, nearly 200 commercial laundry equipment units have been installed across the Social Current network, with more installations to come in 2025, thanks to the time and energy of CSC ServiceWorks volunteers. 

Social Current celebrates and thanks all of its corporate volunteers for working in partnership with our network of organizations to create positive impact.  

To learn more about Social Current’s corporate partnerships, contact us. 

President Donald Trump signed an executive order, Lowering Drug Prices By Once Again Putting Americans First, directing the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reduce prescription drug cost of and expand access. Key provisions include:

  • Lowering the cost of insulin and injectable epinephrine for low-income and uninsured individuals
  • Standardizing Medicare payments for prescription drugs across care settings
  • Stabilizing and reducing Medicare Part D premiums
  • Increasing transparency in Medicare drug price negotiations

Mehmet Oz Confirmed as CMS Administrator

The Senate confirmed Dr. Mehmet Oz as the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in a 53-45 vote. Oz emphasized priorities including health care cost transparency, expedited access to life saving treatments, and combating fraud and waste. He also expressed a commitment to prevention, wellness, and chronic disease management.

HHS Says Gender Dysphoria Not Enforceable Under Disability Protections

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) clarified that gender dysphoria is not enforceable under federal disability protections outlined in its rule Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance. The department stated that the language appeared in the preamble – not the regulatory text – and therefore does not carry the force of the law.

Congress Advances Budget Framework

The House and Senate passed a budget framework along partisan lines, completing the first step of budget reconciliation. The plan includes:

  • A $4 billion reduction in federal spending
  • A $150 increase in military spending
  • A $175 increase for boarder security and immigrant enforcement

These increases have raised bipartisan concerns over the federal deficit and potential cuts to health and nutrition programs. The final budget is expected to extend provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, with a House vote anticipated by the end of May.

CMS Proposes Rule for Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a proposed rule updating Medicare payment policies for Inpatient Psychiatric Facilities (IPF) for fiscal year 2026. Highlights include:

  • A 2.4% payment rate increase
  • Adjustments for teaching status and rural location
  • Recognition of increases to teaching caps for resident full-time equivalents

CMS also proposed removing four quality reporting measures starting in CY 2024/FY 2026:

  • Facility Commitment to Health Equity
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel
  • Screening for Social Drivers of Health
  • Screen Positive Rate for Social Drivers of Health

If finalized, the rule would take effect Oct. 1, 2025.

CMS Limits Future Section 1115 Waivers

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced it will no longer approve or renew Section 1115 demonstration waivers for programs previously funded without Medicare dollars. These include initiatives using Designated State Health Programs or Investment Programs. CMS cited redundancy with other federal and state efforts.

Section 1115 waivers have traditionally allowed states to expand Medicaid services and address social determinants, including housing, nutrition, and workforce development.

House Panel Reviews TANF Oversight Following a GAO Report

The House Subcommittee on Work and Welfare held a hearing following the release of a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report recommending stronger oversight of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Key findings include a shift in state spending from direct cash assistance to services, including job training and child welfare. GAO advised enhanced data reporting, improved assessing fraud risk assessments, and better tracking of audit resolutions.

Roxane Somerlot, director of the Marion County Department of Job and Family Services, testified on the value of TANF-funded services, highlighting child care, youth employment programs, and supports for families nearing income thresholds that affect benefit eligibility.

SNAP Employment Programs Highlighted in House Agriculture Hearing

The House Committee on Agriculture explored strategies to increase employment among Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants.

Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) emphasized the importance of work requirements and SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) programs. Witnesses shared personal success stories, though studies show mixed results on work requirement effectiveness for able-bodied adults without dependents.

Recommendations included ensuring consistent implementation of work requirements and supporting the Training and Nutrition Stability Act, which would exempt temporary training income from benefit eligibility calculations.

Updates from the Judiciary 

Supreme Court Upholds Pause on Teacher Training Grants

The U.S. Supreme Court reversed a lower court ruling that would have required the Trump administration to temporarily reinstate $250 million in teacher training grants across eight states.

The grants were terminated because they supported programs that included equity, diversity,  and inclusion (EDI) components. The justices ruled that the pause would cause permanent harm to the states while litigation proceeds and noted that once disbursed, the federal government would likely be unable to recover the funds.

Four justices dissented, arguing the administration failed to justify the cancellations and that the case did not warrant emergency review. They also raised concerns about the impact on teacher shortages and long-term harm to the public education systems in the affected states.

Supreme Court Backs Federal Regulation of Ghost Guns

In a 7-2 decision, the Supreme Court upheld the Biden Administration’s regulation of ghost guns, untraceable firearms assembled from kits or parts often purchased online. These weapons lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace and increasingly appealing to individuals barred from owning firearms, including minors, domestic abusers, and gun traffickers.

The rule, based on the Gun Control Act of 1968, redefines “frame and receiver” to bring ghost guns under federal oversight. Challengers argued the rule could apply to any ghost guns, but the Court affirmed that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has authority to regulate such parts kits.

The ruling keeps the regulation in effect but allows for further legal challenges regarding how it applies to specific cases.

Subscribe to the Policy and Advocacy Radar to receive our biweekly policy roundup, which includes commentary on issues in Social Current’s federal policy agenda, opportunities to take action, and curated news and opportunities.

“There’s always an opportunity to become a better advocate,” said Jonathan Vasquez, government relations and advocacy assistant at Children’s Institute in Los Angeles. “That’s what the families and communities we serve at the Children’s Institute deserve—people who have the expertise and knowledge to be effective champions of the work.”

Using a whole-family approach, Children’s Institute helps children and families discover strengths and develop skills that create enduring success. For over 20 years, its Project Fatherhood program has provided parenting support to 15,000 men in caregiver roles in Los Angeles.

“After hearing directly from those we serve how often they felt disregarded, forgotten, and disposable, there was a desire to center the emotional and behavioral well-being of fathers in our work,” said Vasquez. “Centering community and lived experience in policy solutions ensures the dreams and aspirations of the communities we serve are reflected.”

After hearing the input of fathers and participating in several advocacy trainings hosted by Social Current, Children’s Institute recognized a need to advocate within all levels of government to bolster and expand this work.

Engaging over 100 fathers, community partners, and government agencies, Children’s Institute held a series of listening sessions that allowed LA County representatives to hear directly from fathers impacted by systemic inequity. These sessions resulted in 27 recommendations advanced by the county in areas including child services, mental health, economic support, and the justice system.

Children’s Institute’s Government Relations & Advocacy and Project Fatherhood teams cultivated a network of elected officials to champion father well-being and amplify a new narrative about fathers. The effort declared June “Fatherhood Well-Being Month” each year in the state of California through House Resolution 36.

With several federally funded initiatives—including Project Fatherhood—Children’s Institute seeks to expand its advocacy efforts at the federal level. Recently, the Government Relations & Advocacy team attended Social Current’s 2024 Advocacy Amplified Training and Hill Day, where they were able to advocate for Head Start funding to further propel their programs forward. Social Current staff also reviewed and provided feedback on their public policy and advocacy agenda to ensure greater impact.

“We are so thankful for our partnership with Social Current,” said Terry Kim, director of government relations and advocacy at Children’s Institute. “They facilitate opportunities to connect with organizations across the country, enhancing our impact and supporting our growth to be stronger advocates for our communities.”

Connect Local Voices to National Advocacy: Join Us in Washington, D.C.

Join Social Current for the Advocacy Amplified Training and Hill Day, taking place June 16–18 in Washington, D.C. This dynamic two-day training and advocacy day on Capitol Hill will equip you with the tools, strategies, and confidence to be a powerful advocate for your organization and community.

Whether you’re new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your approach, this is your opportunity to learn alongside peers, engage directly with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, and make your voice heard.

Social Current also offers customizable solutions to help organizations expand their advocacy efforts and increase their impact–from advocacy and government relations advising, strategy development, and more.

Social Current’s Knowledge and Insights Center recently released an overview of assessing and managing risk for community-based human and social services organizations. Unexpected events, such as disasters, economic downturns, or sudden shifts in public policy, can often cause greater harm to these organizations because they often operate with limited resources, rely heavily on volunteers, and are sustained through government and philanthropic funding.

It is imperative that organizations are proactive and conduct regular risk assessment and mitigation planning to identify financial and operational vulnerabilities and develop plans that can be implemented quickly if adverse situations occur.

Effective risk management is also pivotal to maintaining stability and growth in uncertain times. It encompasses a systematic approach to identifying potential threats and opportunities, evaluating their likelihood and impact, and implementing strategies to moderate adverse effects while maximizing positive outcomes. This spotlight covers:

  • Assessment and mitigation
    • Financial contingency planning
    • Disaster planning
  • Tools and assessments
  • Discussion questions for your board and leadership team
  • Resources for further reading

Download the spotlight on assessing and managing risk online.

Social Current’s Knowledge and Insights Center provides human and social services organizations with the research and information they need to stay current and make informed decisions. In addition to a clearinghouse library, it offers resource collections on key topics, access to specialized databases, and research support from skilled librarians. To gain access, organizations can become a Social Current Impact Partner or purchase access. Contact us to learn more.

Additional Risk Management Resources

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month—a special time to recognize the generous individuals who give their time, talents, and hearts to support the missions of social sector organizations. Volunteers are often the quiet force behind transformational work, showing up not for accolades or compensation, but because they believe in making a difference.

At Social Current, we see this spirit of service come to life every day, especially through our COA Accreditation Reviewer System. This network of volunteer peer reviewers—made up of passionate, experienced professionals from across the human and social services sector—plays a critical role in advancing high standards of quality and continuous improvement. Their dedication ensures that organizations across the country uphold practices that are responsive, ethical, and effective. Learn more about how reviewers support the accreditation process.

Whether reviewing an organization’s operations, mentoring a new volunteer, or lending a helping hand in the community, volunteers inspire us every day. As we celebrate their contributions, here are three simple yet powerful ways to build lasting connections with your volunteers and show them the appreciation they deserve:

1. Build Meaningful Relationships

Don’t just reach out when you need a hand—take time to genuinely connect. Learn about your volunteers’ stories, their motivations, and what brings them joy. When volunteers feel seen and valued, they become even more invested in your mission and are often willing to go the extra mile. A strong relationship fosters trust and mutual commitment.

2. Get to Know the Whole Person

Your volunteers are multifaceted individuals who likely lead fascinating lives outside of your organization. Take interest in their families, careers, and passions. You might discover they support causes across the globe or have unique talents that can enrich your organization. Celebrating who they are beyond their volunteer role can strengthen your bond and deepen their engagement.

3. Be Creative and Consistent in Showing Appreciation

Volunteers don’t give their time expecting anything in return—but that makes it all the more important to recognize their efforts. Even when resources are limited, find heartfelt and creative ways to say thank you. A handwritten note, a public shoutout, or a surprise treat can go a long way. Let them know how much their contributions mean—not just during Volunteer Appreciation Month, but all year round.

Whether they’re advancing organizational excellence through the COA accreditation process or lending their talents in other ways, volunteers are the soul of the social sector. This month, and every month, let’s continue to honor their commitment with gratitude, connection, and celebration.

From all of us at Social Current—thank you, volunteer peer reviewers. You make our collective impact possible.