Governor Brad Little announced the appointment of Trevor Sparrow as Idaho’s inaugural Health and Social Services Ombudsman, a position established under Senate Bill 1380 earlier this year. The new role aims to enhance oversight and responsiveness within the state’s child welfare system, ensuring that services provided to foster children, those under protective supervision, and residents in treatment facilities are effective and equitable.
Sparrow brings extensive experience to the position, having served as director of the Idaho Youth Challenge Academy (IDYCA) in Pierce since 2017. Under his leadership, the academy has supported over 2,200 at-risk youth in earning high school diplomas or GEDs. His prior roles include deputy director of the IDYCA, probation and parole officer, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation specialist for the Idaho Department of Correction.
In addition to his professional achievements, Sparrow has held leadership roles in local government and economic development, serving as mayor of Pierce from 2016 to 2020 and as chair of the Clearwater Economic Development Association board of directors.
Sparrow’s educational background includes a master’s degree in addiction counseling from Grand Canyon University, a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from the University of Phoenix, and an associate’s degree in law enforcement from Idaho State University. He also holds certifications in restorative practices and public management.
A father of six, including one adopted from the foster care system, Sparrow and his wife have firsthand experience with the challenges and opportunities within Idaho’s child welfare programs.
The new ombudsman role underscores Idaho’s commitment to fostering public confidence in government systems and improving care for the state’s most vulnerable children. Sparrow will manage the independent office created to address complaints and gather insights to drive reforms.
“This office will be a voice for children in care and those with a vested interest in their well-being,” Sparrow stated, expressing his dedication to building upon recent progress in Idaho’s foster care system.
The establishment of the Ombudsman office marks a significant step in Idaho’s efforts to enhance transparency, accountability, and innovation within the child welfare framework.