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Organizational Structure

Virginia Department of Social Services & Virginia’s Social Services System

The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) is part of a bigger team called the Virginia Social Services System (VSSS). This system is made up of:

Together, these groups make sure people in Virginia get the help and services they need.

Generic graphic of an org chartHow VDSS Works Together

The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) is made up of many parts that work together to support families and communities across the Commonwealth.

Our Structure Includes:

Photo of the VDSS executive team standing behind the CommissionerExecutive Leadership

The Commissioner is supported by the Chief Deputy Commissioner, five Deputy Commissioners, over 25 directors and senior leaders, and over 1500 dedicated social services professionals committed to serving Virginians.  Pictured from left to right:
Necole Simmonds, Deputy Commissioner of Employee and Organizational Strategy
Carl Ayers, Deputy Commissioner of Human Services
S. Duke Storen, Commissioner
Hari Dulal, Deputy Commissioner of Strategy and Engagement
Craig Burshem, Deputy Commissioner of State Programs
Ryan Kelly, Deputy Commissioner of Policy and Administration

Divisions and Their Role

Each division plays an important part in serving Virginians:

Benefit Programs – Food, health care, child care and energy assistance

Family Services – Protects children, strengthens families and supports foster care and adoption

Infrastructure Operations – Runs agency computers and networks

Enterprise Learning and Development – Offers training and coaching for staff growth

Business Operations – Child support payments and background checks

Finance – Oversees budgets and spending

Licensing Programs – Ensures child and adult care programs are safe and meet standards Innovation and Strategic Initiatives – Brings new ideas and partnerships to improve services

Child Support Enforcement (DCSE) – Ensures children receive support from both parents

General Services – Manages contracts, mail, printing and emergency planning Local Engagement and Support – Provides direct support to local offices Legislative and Regulatory Affairs – Tracks laws and rules that affect social services

Community and Volunteer Services – Connects with community groups, volunteers and faith partners

Human Resources – Hiring, training and employee support

Local Training and Development – Trains local staff in key service areas Research and Planning – Uses data to guide better services

Compliance – Makes sure VDSS follows state and federal rules

Information Security – Protects agency systems Public Affairs – Shares information with the public and partners Trauma and Resilience Policy – Promotes healing and resilience for families and communities