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Connecticut

Jeanne M. Milstein Child Advocate The Office of Child Advocate 18-20 Trinity Street Hartford, CT 06106

Jeanne Milstein was appointed Child Advocate for the State of Connecticut in 2000. In that capacity, she evaluates the delivery of services to children, investigates complaints, monitors children's facilities, serves as the State's ombudsman for children, and Chairs the Child Fatality Review Panel. More broadly, she protects the civil, legal, and special rights of children, and advances legislation and policies throughout the State that promote their well-being.

Ms. Milstein's entire career has centered around children's issues. She helped to create the Connecticut Juvenile Training School, a new correctional facility for adjudicated youth. She created a program for adolescent females, the State's first gender-specific initiative in juvenile justice, and founded and operated the first company in Connecticut to provide child care facilities in major employment sites. She served as Legislative Director for the Connecticut Commission on Children, advancing a legislative agenda that promoted school readiness and strengthened regulations around child care, children's health, and child abuse prevention. As Director of Government Relations for the Department of Children and Families (DCF), she developed and implemented a Government and Community Relations Department to broaden DCF's linkages to local communities throughout the State. She also teaches parents how to be effective advocates for their children as a Teacher and Trainer for the Parent Leadership Training Institute.

Ms. Milstein is leading the crusade for children in Connecticut with focus and commitment to ensure their protection. Her experience with the Department of Children and Families and with various child advocacy groups gives her a unique perspective on the many challenges and decisions she faces daily as Child Advocate for the State. She cares very deeply for the children who are the future of our society.

Updated on July 3, 2008