Overview:

A service and process that brings family, friends and service providers together with the help of neutral facilitators. They deal with a variety of issues that are harming the family – the children, the adults, or both. This is a service that families, social service agencies and organizations can use to help support and strengthen children’s lives.

Trained facilitators do the work to make this happen. They interview potential "family members", who might include blood relatives, as well as friends of the family. They also talk with service providers that are involved with the case.

The goal is to bring a variety of people to a meeting and discuss options; then, as a group, create a plan that works for the family members, as well as the concerns that might have been set down by the courts.

Family meetings are useful to adults, children and service providers. Sometimes providers or the courts have specific issues they want addressed and accomplished. Families and providers often find they have a difficult time dealing with a variety of issues, such as:

• Family preservation
  
• Family placements
• Family support
• Corrections / probation violations
• Grandparents raising grandchildren
• Truancy
• Independent living skills
• Youth transitioning out of foster care
• Reunification
• Mental health / illness
• Domestic violence
• Teen pregnancy
• Behavior issues
• Abuse / neglect concerns
• Termination of parental rights
• Chemical dependency
• Adoption
• Other family situations involving children and adults

Some people may be uncomfortable talking about certain topics; not understand what's happening to them; or have communication and conflict issues that must be addressed first. Here are some typical questions that are asked by people when thinking about using this strategy for dealing with families and tough situations.

Process

A coordinator meets with the person who requests the Family Group Decision Making conference and describes the process, creates the invitation list, and discusses a time and location for the meeting. The reason, or purpose, for the meeting is thought through and developed. Next the coordinator gets together with invited "family" members and service providers; explains the process and listens to their input. This also helps when arranging a place, date and time for the meeting.

When people gather for the meeting, the facilitators help with introductions, make sure everyone understands the purpose of the meeting - why everyone’s here. Often strengths are identified, and concerns are voiced. Issues are brought forth as well as some solutions. The group then discusses how to create a plan that addresses the family’s concerns.

Once a plan is created the family presents the plan; and they may request feedback. Sometimes a second meeting may be necessary because participants may have "homework". They might have to get additional information, check on supports or services, or may need more time to discuss the issues. Once a final plan is agreed to, the facilitator goes over the notes; makes sure everyone is in agreement, and understands the plan. Possible future meeting dates can be discussed and specific people are identified who can monitor the plan and be called if any assistance is needed.

Training

Training is available for FGDM administrators, coordinators and facilitators. A two-three day training: Our training is highly interactive. We help prepare people to:

• Create and run a FGDM program
• Coordinate and facilitate family meeting
• Market your program to families, agencies and organizations.

The training is a combination of lecture and experiential exercises. We utilize writing, reflection, small and large group discussions, and role plays to help people practice using skills, tips and techniques we discuss and demonstrate during the workshop.

We are available to travel to your location for on-site training. Please contact us for further information.

Who can benefit from using this process?

These are just some of the people, agencies, businesses and organizations who could make use of this process.

• Social Service agencies and organizations that serve families and youth
• Correction Facilities
• Mental health centers
• HMOs and other medical facilities
• Churches, synagogues and other faith communities
• Schools

Please contact us for further information and fees.