NCJ Number
115158
Date Published
1988
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the nature and operations of the Family Outreach program, which aims to prevent child abuse and neglect through one-to-one counseling services and parenting classes for parents experiencing child problems.
Abstract
Information and referral services are also offered, as well as speakers and media presentations for community groups. Family Outreach began in 1973 in Richardson, Tex., when the first center opened as a joint effort of the Texas Department of Human Resources and the National Council of Jewish Women, Inc. By 1986 the program model had been replicated 24 times in two States. At each location, the local branch of the State agency responsible for the investigation of abuse and neglect referrals joined with a local volunteer organization to sponsor the program. This paper describes the program's goals and objectives, project responsibilities, the paraprofessional's role in the program, training, and publicity and education. A description of the client population contains two case studies. A table shows the number of families assisted by the 16-19 centers reporting services to Family Outreach of America, Inc., for 1982-85. The paper also reviews evaluation studies of child abuse prevention demonstration programs which use paraprofessionals. 1 table, 7 references.