Victim Informed Strategies for Responding to Young Victims and Families: Research Findings from Illinois' OVC Linking Systems of Care for Children and Youth Demonstration Project (Webinar)

Illinois HEALS is one of four state demonstration projects funded by the Office for Victims of Crime to link systems of care for children, youth, and families experiencing violence and victimization in their homes, schools, and communities. Researchers and policy advisers with Illinois HEALS (Illinois Helping Everyone Access Linked Systems) have worked collaboratively to identify strengths, opportunities, and challenges facing providers serving young victims and families. As part of a 15-month planning process, researchers interviewed young adults and caregivers of children and youth impacted by violence to better understand their experiences with service providers and their recommendations for improving responses to facilitate healing.

Presenters will provide an overview of critical activities during the planning phase, interview findings, and the action plan, all of which can inform researchers and practitioners seeking to develop similar partnerships and those working to strengthen their response to young victims and their families.