Tribal Affairs Office The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is committed to working with the eleven federally recognized Tribal Nations located within Wisconsin. Through a collaborative effort that recognizes and respects their sovereignty, DCF consults with the Tribal Nations to support tribal children and families through the Department’s various programs, including: Child Welfare Child Support Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Work Programs (W-2) Child Care Domestic Abuse Services Home Visiting Services Youth Justice The Tribal Affairs Office (TAO) serves as liaison to tribal governments, tribal organizations, the urban tribal population, the general public, and DCF staff by: Facilitating a productive government-to-government relationship between DCF and the Tribal Nations. Ensuring tribal-DCF collaboration in the development of policy, program and funding initiatives impacting Tribal Nations and their communities. Fostering an effective chain of communication between DCF and Tribal Nations. Training DCF staff and others in the area of tribal relations. Providing technical assistance to Tribal Nations. Working together to ensure culturally appropriate resources and services are available. Providing administrative, fiscal and program oversight of programs contracted to the Tribal Nations headquartered in Wisconsin The roles and responsibilities of the TAO staff include: Helping in the development of policies and initiatives that impact Tribal Nations and their citizens. Serving as a liaison between the Tribal Nations and DCF to promote the safety and well-being of children and families.
