Walking Our Talk In the Neighborhoods
Many child welfare programs seem culturally irrelevant. Not all recipients are satisfied, and we know we should make better use of the resources available in our communities. Neighborhood residents have many strengths and much information that could be mobilized for self-help, mutual aid, and mutual support.
What is "Walking Our Talk in the Neighborhoods"?
This tool describes why we need to look at neighborhood/professional partnerships and the potential benefits of this approach. It summarizes issues in the development of such partnerships and offers solutions to possible difficulties.
What did we learn from these applications?
We learned it is possible to develop close working relationships across professional/paraprofessional lines and between public and private agencies. We identified many complications and ramifications from supporting natural helpers in moving toward financial independence.
What you need to get started:
Start by reading this tool and discussing it with members of your organization.
What you need for full implementation:
Invite current and potential neighborhood partners to share the ideas in this tool and discuss their hopes and dreams for creating a different approach to serving families. Get consultation if you need it. A structured Walking Our Talk Workshop is also available to help professionals and natural helpers design a plan for working together.
How to find out more:
resources, examples, references:
This tool can be ordered from the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Consultants available to answer questions or lead initial discussions include Jill Kinney 253.927.7547, Margaret Trent 253.274.9732, and Kathy Strand 253.627.3533.