Wyoming Citizen Review Panel

The Citizen Review Panel is a federally mandated group of citizens who are responsible for determining whether state and local agencies are effectively meeting child protective responsibilities pursuant to the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) and subsequent amendments.

Through a review of service networks, policies, procedures, research and reviews of child protective and juvenile service cases the purpose of the Citizen Review Panel is to promote child safety, permanency and well-being for children and families.

Brenda L. Birkle

Born and educated in Wyoming, Brenda Birkle is a true native with deep roots in the state. Her family's homesteading history in southeast Wyoming has instilled in her a profound connection to the land, the people, and the unique opportunities that make the region exceptional.

With a diverse professional background spanning government, private industry, and the nonprofit sector, Brenda brings a comprehensive, ground-up perspective to leadership and community development. She has served on numerous boards and councils, including the Wyoming Workforce Development Council, Wyoming Trucking Association, and the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, where she also chaired the Affordable Housing Task Force. Her leadership across these sectors has strengthened her expertise in economic and community development, human services, and strategic policy implementation.

From 2018 to 2024, Brenda served as the Executive Director of My Front Door, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing affordable housing solutions. Under her leadership, the organization expanded its impact, including the establishment of a Community Land Trust for Affordable Housing—a lasting initiative aimed at addressing the critical need for sustainable homeownership opportunities. She has been a strong advocate for housing affordability as a cornerstone of economic stability and a key determinant of community well-being.

As the Executive Director of the Wyoming Citizen Review Panel (WYCRP), Brenda is committed to strengthening child welfare systems. She facilitates initiatives that enhance child safety and well-being, including the Parents as Teachers (PAT) Program, which provides in-home support for families with young children. She plays a key role in the Children’s Justice Act Taskforce, contributing to efforts that improve the state’s response to child abuse and neglect cases and the WYCRP Policy Review Team, focusing on policy analysis and recommendations to enhance child welfare systems.

Beyond her professional commitments, Brenda is a devoted wife, mother of two adult children, and an engaged community member. She values family, integrity, and the shared responsibility of building a vibrant, resilient future for Wyoming.

Josie Brittain

Josie Brittain was born and raised in rural Wyoming and has worked with children and families for over 20 years. Josie is currently the Program Manager for the Parents as Teachers, a program under the Wyoming Citizen Review Panel. Josie earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Child Development from the University of Wyoming in 2012 and has dedicated her work to supporting families across the state.

She began her journey with Parents as Teachers in 2016 as a Parent Educator and later transitioned to Program Manager, where she now provides guidance to Parent Educators, advocates for family-centered practices, and works to strengthen support systems for Wyoming families.

Driven by a deep passion for empowering families, Josie helps parents recognize their strengths and potential for success. As a mother of two, she brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to her work, using encouragement and positivity to help families thrive.