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March 2009 Family engagement contributes to reunification and permanence |
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Achieving permanency has become the measure of success for service providers. Essential to attaining this goal is the establishment of the safety and well-being of the youth. Family engagement is an essential component of every La Salle service. This article highlights the way family engagement is a critical aspect of our work to achieve safety, well-being and permanency for youth in our residential program. “La Salle’s philosophy is that aftercare begins at the point of admission into residential placement,” said Director of Clinical Services Kelly Young. “La Salle encourages parents and guardians to attend the initial interview and follow their son through the intake process and on into his individual and group therapy sessions. The agency has found that this active participation gives the treatment plan and reunification a stronger chance for success.”  One of La Salle’s many programs focusing on the family is Community Connections. At the heart of this program is planning the aftercare of the youth immediately after the start of his placement. As the Residential social worker helps the student adjust to placement, the Community Connections worker begins to meet with parents / guardians to plan for their son’s return home. The family’s participation in this important phase of treatment is essential to create the best possible environment for the family unit.“The parents and caregivers we work with are often faced with many challenges in raising their teenage boys,” said Jessica Repko, a Community Connections social worker. “Some are young and have either limited experience in the workforce and / or are lacking in advanced education. In addition, many are challenged by minimal financial, community, and social resources which makes the current economy very stressful for them.” The Connections social worker goes to the family’s house at various times including when the teen is on a home visit. In this familiar setting, the whole family is more apt to let their guard down and discuss issues openly and honestly. The social worker can also explain the intricacies of the system and soften any inaccurate perceptions. After a youth is discharged from placement, he and his family are followed by a Community Connections social worker. “La Salle’s mission is to marry treatment and family goals hoping to achieve an improved parent / child relationship,” explains Young. “Working closely with the family, the social worker helps them contact community providers and advocates for them as they navigate the home, school and community settings. La Salle addresses these and any other special needs as they strive to create a safe home atmosphere that strongly contributes to the whole unit’s well-being and successful reunification.” |
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