Introduction
Every day in the system is a day of childhood lost. We wholeheartedly believe in our commitment to find family for everyone, but this mission begins with the family first. Keeping families together safely is the first and best option to ensure a young person is supported on their path to a successful adulthood.
Our Connected Families program is designed for youth ages 6-12 who are at risk of being placed in foster care. We empower the family by connecting them with the resources they need to allow youth to stay with their families and avoid the significant trauma of removal.
Building Stability by Keeping Families Together
Once a youth at risk of entering the foster care system is referred to us by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) we will work with the family to create a plan that will strengthen the family’s ability to meet their children’s needs and address the safety concerns identified by the Department. By partnering with families and connecting them with the resources and supports they need to thrive, the trauma of separation can be avoided.
How it Works
- Identify Family Needs
Families with youth who are at risk of removal often face challenges of poverty and lack access to the resources needed for providing a safe, stable home environment. Our Connected Families social workers will work directly with the family to identify concrete needs and connect them with community resources. - Help Navigate Resource Networks
Our Family Preservation Specialists will work closely with the family to ensure they understand all tools available to guide their success. Finding community resources can feel overwhelming for families juggling multiple priorities, and the steps to access them are not always clear. Connected Families social workers will help families navigate resource networks by identifying, mapping and collaborating with local service providers to ensure that families will be directly introduced to and engaged with other community-based supports that do not require ongoing DCF involvement. - Supportive Skill Building and Self Advocacy
By working in partnership with families to help them identify and grow their network of natural and community-based supports and services, we are building their self-advocacy skills. Our goal is to build the families’ confidence in navigating the resource networks available to them. Families will gain practical tools on how to research and apply for programs to stabilize their futures. - Youth Guided Family Driven Teaming
Our approach to help families become connected to resources goes well beyond providing referrals on paper. We are taking a proactive approach with the family and advocating for their long-term stability. Our “family teaming” model teaches self-advocacy and aims to build a lasting network of extended family, fictive kin, community connections, clergy, and others to support the youth and families we serve long after the professional services have closed. - Advocating for the Family Every Step of the Way
Preventing the removal of youth requires immediate, hands-on support for families. Plummer works in close partnership with parents and caregivers to strengthen safety and stability, staying involved and coordinating with the Department of Children and Families until the case is resolved.
“Every kid is one caring adult away from being a success story. ”
– Josh Shipp, former youth in foster care turned youth advocate
Send Us A Message
For any questions regarding our Connected Families program, please reach out to us.
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