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DCS  > Overview > About DCS About DCS

DCS Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission:  The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) protects children from abuse and neglect. DCS does this by partnering with families and communities to provide safe, nurturing, and stable homes.

Vision:  Children thrive in safe, caring, supportive families and communities.

Values: Protecting our Children, Families and Future

  • We believe every child has the right to be free from abuse and neglect.
  • We believe every child has the right to appropriate care and a permanent home.
  • We believe parents have the primary responsibility for the care and safety of their children.
  • We believe the most desirable place for children to grow up is with their own families, when these families are able to provide safe, nurturing, and stable homes.
  • We believe in personal accountability for outcomes, including one's growth and development.
  • We believe every person has value, worth, and dignity.

Overview

The Department of Child Services was established in January 2005 by an executive order of Governor Mitch Daniels.  The Department was charged with providing more direct attention and oversight of two critical areas: protection of children and child support enforcement.  James W. Payne, a juvenile court judge in Marion County for 25 years, was named the Agency's first Director.

DCS protects children who are victims of abuse or neglect and strengthens families through services that focus on family support and preservation. The Department also administers child support, child protection, adoption and foster care throughout the state of Indiana. The DCS Central Office is located in the Indiana Government Center South at 302 West Washington Street, Room E306.

Message from Governor Mitch Daniels

“Our new crew is reshaping government to make sure that Hoosier children who need the state's protection receive it, and children who are entitled to financial support get it.”

Mitch Daniels

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