Child Reunification Considerations for Communities
2. Planning Process
2.1. Identify Key Stakeholders – Child Reunification Focus Group
Establishing a Child Reunification Focus Group
Begin by identifying key community stakeholders who can contribute to a focus group on child reunification. Agency representatives should demonstrate a commitment to child welfare and understand children’s developmental, behavioral, medical, and physiological needs.
When designating a lead agency, select an organization with reunification expertise, strong collaboration skills, and an understanding of children’s needs. Including stakeholders from multiple sectors gives the focus group access to a broad range of perspectives, expertise, capabilities, and resources.
Additional guidance for identifying participants is available in Appendix B: Community Stakeholders for Child Reunification Focus Group.
Community Education Partners
| Who | Why |
|---|---|
| Community leaders with a personal stake in child welfare and the well-being of families | Provide guidance, mobilize resources, and promote collaboration |
| American Red Cross | Experience in setting up child-friendly reunification and shelter spaces, and planning support services |
| Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | Expertise in child welfare, family services, and disaster response |
| Local health department | Knowledge of pediatric health care needs and pediatric community resources |
| Local children’s hospital / Pediatric health care professionals | Provide insight into the medical and developmental needs of children and guidance on trauma-informed care |
| Social services organizations | Experts in child welfare, casement, and family support services |
| Educational stakeholders | Schools, school districts, and other educational institutions can support academic needs including special education services and individualized learning plans |
| Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) – State Partnership Program | Experts in pediatric emergency response, ensuring that medical services and resources are available and appropriately tailored to meet the unique needs of children |
| Early childhood education and childcare providers | Offer insight on age-appropriate care, child development, and early childhood education resources |
| Runaway and homeless youth programs | Provide perspectives on housing stability, family dynamics, and support services for this vulnerable population |
| Juvenile justice stakeholders | Provide insights on youth behavior, interventions, and the intersection between child welfare and juvenile justice systems |
| Youth recreational stakeholders | Identify positive youth engagement and skill building activities |
| Pediatric disability communities and organizations | Ensure that the unique needs of children with disabilities are considered throughout the reunification process, including access to appropriate services and accommodations |
Pediatric professional societies
|
Provide expertise in various fields related to pediatric care, emergency nursing, and child life services |
| United Way / Community foundations | Offer a broad network of community partners and resources that can aid in reunification planning efforts |
| Local universities and research institutions | Bring research-based insights and expertise in child development and family dynamics |