Thank you for your interest in the Department of Human Services.

We provide a comprehensive array of health and social services and programs to over 65,000 people in Dane County each year. We're very proud of the work we do in collaboration with partners, providers, stakeholders, and staff. We hope these pages help you find what you need.

Otherwise, feel free to send us an email, which we check daily. Again, thank you for your interest!

To Report Child Abuse/Neglect 
Call: 608-261-5437
Monday - Friday
7:45am - 4:30pm

Call: 608-255-6067
Non-Business Hours

To Report Adult/Elder Abuse
Call: 608-261-9933
Monday - Friday
7:45am - 4:30pm

Dane County is a community that cares for one another; I am honored to lead the Human Services team, which focuses on helping all individuals and communities thrive. When we work together, we can build a path forward what seeks solutions fit for our community. I came to this work through lived experience, volunteerism, training, and professional opportunities. As a young child, my family fled El Salvador during the civil war. I watched my parents, rise through their experiences with tragedy, and continue their mission of public service. We made Dane County home, and following in the model they had exemplified for me, I began to volunteer and I then pursued degrees in social work – with clinical experience in mental health and juvenile justice reform.

Before joining Dane County Human Services, I served the world’s largest social care program, Social Security Administration, as the Director for Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. I offer to our community my experience in moving policy forward through compassion, and dedication to creating a world where we can all reach our goals.

I encourage you to reach out to us (HumanServices@danecounty.gov) for any matters related to the delivery of services offered by our Department and for anyone seeking opportunities to give back to our community.

- John Schlueter
Director of Dane County Department of Human Services

At Dane County Human Services we strive to empower people to thrive in safe, just and caring communities. As the Deputy Director, I provide a sense of continuity and stability to Department staff, partners, and clients. As a convener, I assist in leading staff to focus on the heartbeat of our community to ensure voices are heard and served throughout all of Dane County. I grew up in this community, a graduate of West, an undergrad from UW-Madison, and two advanced degrees – an MBA and Public Management and Policy from La Follette School of Public Affairs – that help me in my work every day.

Before joining DCDHS, I served the City of Madison as a Deputy Mayor, Madison Metropolitan School District as the Director of Strategic Partnerships, and led a team at UW-Madison’s County Health Rankings. Human Services is my heart’s work and I am honored to be part of a team doing such important work. I look forward to seeing you in the community, and working together.

- Astra Iheukumere
Deputy Director Dane County Department of Humans Services