(1) "Cultural competence" means accepting and respecting diversity and differences in a continuous process of self-assessment and reflection on one’s personal and organizational perceptions of the dynamics of culture.

(2) "Cultural responsiveness" means the process by which people and systems respond respectfully and effectively to individuals of all cultures, languages, classes, races, ethnic backgrounds, disabilities, religions, genders, sexual orientations and other diversity factors in a manner that recognizes, affirms and values the worth of individuals, families and communities, and that protects and preserves the dignity of each.

(3) "Family" includes, with respect to a youth:

(a) A biological or legal parent;

(b) A sibling;

(c) An individual related by blood, marriage or adoption;

(d) A foster parent;

(e) A legal guardian;

(f) A caregiver;

(g) An individual with a significant social relationship with the youth;

(h) Any person who provides support to the youth that the youth identifies as important; and

(i) Any person identified by the youth as being family.

(4) "Services and supports" means public, private and community resources that assist youth in the achievement of positive outcomes, including but not limited to education, child welfare, public health, primary care, pediatric care, juvenile justice, mental health treatment, substance use treatment and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

(5) "System of care" means a coordinated network of services and supports to youth that:

(a) Integrates care planning and management across multiple levels of care;

(b) Recognizes disability as a natural and healthy part of the human experience;

(c) Is culturally and linguistically competent;

(d) Is designed to build meaningful partnerships with families and youth in the delivery and management of services and the development of policy;

(e) Has a supportive policy and management infrastructure at the state and local levels; and

(f) Is community-based with relationships at the local level.

(6) "Youth" means an individual 25 years of age or younger who has, or is at increased risk of developing, chronic behavioral, emotional, physical or developmental conditions and is under the supervision of or engaged with two or more systems of care. [2019 c.616 §1]

Note: 418.976 to 418.981 were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 418 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.