About Southeast Center of Excellence (SECOE)
Southeast Center of Excellence (SECOE) is a non-profit organization that is part of a statewide network, funded under an agreement with the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. SECOE is one of five regional Centers of Excellence dedicated to enhancing the quality of services provided to children in, or at-risk of entering, the Tennessee child welfare or juvenile justice systems.
At SECOE, we believe that every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive and reach their full potential. We work tirelessly to ensure that children in Tennessee receive the best possible care and support when they need it most.
Our team consists of highly trained professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children. We provide training, technical assistance, and consultation services to agencies and organizations throughout Tennessee that serve children in need.
Our mission at SECOE is to improve outcomes for children by promoting evidence-based practices and providing support for those who work with them. We believe that by working together with our partners across the state, we can create positive change for vulnerable youth.
One area where we focus our efforts is on improving outcomes for youth involved in both child welfare and juvenile justice systems. These young people often face significant challenges as they navigate complex systems designed to protect them from harm but can also be overwhelming and confusing.
Through our partnerships with agencies across Tennessee, we provide training on trauma-informed care practices designed specifically for this population. Our goal is to help these young people heal from past traumas while also providing them with tools they need to succeed as they move forward into adulthood.
Another area where we focus our efforts is on improving outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth involved in child welfare or juvenile justice systems. These young people often face unique challenges related to their sexual orientation or gender identity which can make navigating these complex systems even more difficult.
Through our partnerships with organizations serving LGBTQ+ youth across Tennessee, we provide training on how best to support these young people through culturally responsive practices designed specifically for this population. Our goal is not only to help these young people feel safe but also empowered as they navigate challenging situations.
At SECOE, we are committed not only improving outcomes for individual children but also creating systemic change within child welfare and juvenile justice systems throughout Tennessee. Through collaboration with partners across the state who share our vision for a better future for all kids – regardless of their background – we believe that anything is possible!