Programming with Limited-Resource Families
There is no one approach or simple prescription for designing a successful program to serve limited-resource families. But research has identified some common elements of successful programs for families and children. These elements cut across a wide variety of strategies and delivery methods. According to the National Network for Family Resiliency, successful programs are:
Community-Based
Community-based programs recognize that children are part of a family and community. Programs that encourage neighborhood and school involvement help communities respond to the needs of individuals and families.
Comprehensive
Programs that provide continuous, intense interaction with competent, caring adults and peers are more effective than programs designed solely for crisis situations. Effective programs focus on services that address the educational, health, social, and emotional needs of individuals, parents, and children.
Empowering
Programs that provide nurturing connections with others help individuals and families learn about community resources and link them to the world of work. Successful programs involve people shaping their own "interventions."
Complex
Programs must focus on causes; addressing immediate symptoms is not enough. Early intervention and crisis prevention should be emphasized. Addressing barriers to change empowers individuals and families to become part of the decision-making process.
Culturally Relevant
Programs that respect individuals and cultural differences build on the strengths in the people being served. Both addressing barriers and accommodating different learning styles help build a broad resource base for problem solving.
Collaborative
Programs need to involve multiple agencies, organizations, and citizens to be effective. Coordination with existing services helps integrate programs into communities.
Respectful
Interactions between programs and the people to be served should focus on equality and respect, solidify relationships, and provide opportunities for one-on-one interaction. Voluntary programs that are accessible and easy to use encourage participation. Using mentors to share their experiences helps clients address their own goals.
Intergenerational
Programs that value resiliency use an encouragement model that takes an intergenerational approach to build on family strengths. Programsthat provide education can help families acquire basic skills and promote informal support among peers.
Accountable
Programs need regular assessment to make services more responsive to families and to justify financial investments.
