First half of FY18

The System/Family Navigation program continues to work towards increasing their contacts per family. Many clients contact Navigators directly, seeking one or two different referrals to resources. Some clients do not require multiple contacts, but the families that need more intensive services have more than 6.8 contact hours averaged out, the reported number does not reflect this. Additionally, Worcester Youth and Family is confident that they will meet their targeted goal.

Second half of FY18

During the second half of the fiscal year, System/Family Navigation met all target measures, and continue to exceed the target for the number of business days that it took to refer clients to other organizations. During this period, navigators received 229 referrals, and helped 53 families. 

Reflecting on FY2018

The navigators continue to work towards increasing the number contacts per family, but most clients contact the program seeking one or two referrals, and a do not require multiple contacts. Families that need more intensive services have many more than 7 contacts. Navigators continue to serve families with children. Families are satisfied with the services they are receiving.

The System/Family Navigation program is a hybrid model utilizing both a single point of access and a no-wrong-door approach. Individuals may contact the agency by phone, walk-in or receive referrals from another agency. System Navigators provide intense assistance to to families identifying their strengths and needs through the utilization of Child Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessment.

The target population for the System/Family Navigation is Disconnected Youth or youth at risk of becoming disconnected; as well as children, youth, individuals and families who are living in poverty, those that are homeless, or at risk for homelessness.