The Star Award recipient(s) will be individuals or teams who have demonstrated one or more of the characteristics/values listed in each section and accomplished one of the following goals while employed with the DHS:

Values (50 total points possible) Actions or achievements that demonstrate departmental values. Leadership (10 points possible) Demonstrates through actions or achievements one or more of the following: Takes initiative, motivates and inspires others. Treats people with fairness, dignity and respect and shows appreciation for an employee's or team's efforts, achievements or accomplishments. Bases decisions on reason and principles and sets goals and priorities based on the department vision, values and strategic plan. Involves employees, clients and community partners in achieving the goals of the department. Demonstrates flexibility and creativity by making timely and appropriate changes in his/her thinking, planning or methodology. Assumes a leadership role in the community or the workplace to develop resources for children, adults, families or DHS employees. Integrity (10 points possible) Demonstrates through actions or achievements one or more of the following: Builds trust with employees, clients or community partners. Contributes to maintaining the integrity of the department. Does not minimize or exaggerate information to support their views. Does not share confidential information inappropriately. Keeps commitments and performs actions as promised. Displays sincerity and high standards of ethical conduct in all their actions. Inclusion (10 points possible) Demonstrates through actions or achievements one or more of the following: Demonstrates respect for a diverse work force and a diverse clientele. Exhibits sensitivity to the feelings, values and interests of co-workers, clients and community partners. Responds appropriately to others and adjusts approaches to suit different people and various situations. Demonstrates inclusiveness by involving a variety of others in decision making and planning. Involves others (clients, coworkers, community partners) by sharing information and requesting their involvement and input. Teamwork (10 points possible) Demonstrates through actions or achievements one or more of the following: Encourages and facilitates cooperation, collaboration, and a commitment to working toward a common goal. Builds strong relationships with coworkers, clients and community partners through straight talk, active listening and a "can do" attitude. Proactively meets the needs of coworkers, clients and community partners to help each other be successful. Is dependable and accepts responsibility for fulfilling commitments or job responsibilities as scheduled. Excellence (10 points possible) Demonstrates through actions or achievements one or more of the following: Demonstrates high standards and establishes a level of performance that exhibits outstanding quality, productivity or service. Uses and displays outstanding job knowledge. Works to overcome obstacles and dedicates time and energy to ensure important aspects of the work are not overlooked or neglected. Sets quality improvement goals and measures results. Works continuously to improve ideas and solutions. Demonstrates maximum use of available state, federal and private dollars. Goals (25 points possible) - Choose one goal. Took extraordinary measures to ensure the protection, support or success of children or adults. Developed and/or implemented a program, procedure, or process that supports staff and improves internal efficiency. Developed or implemented an approach, program, or procedure that has reduced fraud. Developed and/or implemented an approach, program, or procedure that has provided outstanding supports for parents and other caretakers of young children. Developed and/or implemented an approach, program, or procedure that has helped ensure children have access to a community-based, comprehensive, quality system of early care or education. Developed and/or implemented an approach, program, or procedure that has helped expand care options, improve the quality of care, and assure a continuum of care for children. Developed and/or implemented an approach, program, or procedure that has helped increase the self-sufficiency of clients. Developed and/or implemented an approach, program, or procedure that has helped expand care options, improve the quality of care and assure a continuum of care for adult clients.