

AI 101 for Human Services Leaders


AI 101 for Human Services Leaders
Human services leaders are being asked to make decisions about AI, often without clear, shared definitions of what these systems are, how they work, or where they are already shaping service delivery. This session provides a practical, plain-language introduction to AI in human services, grounded in real operational contexts rather than hype.
Participants will explore how AI is currently used in areas such as eligibility determination, case management, fraud detection, and client communications. The session focuses on building informed leadership judgment: understanding what AI can and cannot do, where risks tend to emerge, and how leaders can ask better questions when evaluating tools, proposals, or pilots.
This workshop is designed for human services executives, program leaders, and managers who need a clear foundation to engage responsibly with AI initiatives.
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
• Distinguish between common types of AI systems and how they show up in human services operations
• Identify current and emerging AI use cases across eligibility, case management, and client communication
• Recognize common misconceptions and risks associated with AI adoption in high-stakes public programs
• Ask informed, practical questions when evaluating AI proposals or vendor claims