Family Centered Services Community Resource Initiative

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2013

The Family Centered Services Community Resource Initiative is a model offering a new approach to service delivery for the Orange County Department of Child Support Services (CSS). CSS implemented this model to link customers to community resources to help resolve issues that may prevent parents from paying their child support obligation and from being an active part of their children’s lives. CSS meets with the customer to assess their current situation. Through the course of the meeting the interviewer listens, identifies potential barriers and identifies how they can assist the customer. CSS creates an environment of trust and understanding while engaging the customer in viable solutions to their child support matters. Child support representatives connect the customer to community resources to meet their needs. CSS opened its Community Resource Center in November 2012. Customers experience a welcoming, professional environment to meet with CSS staff. Staff is focused on first understanding the customer’s needs and then identifying solutions to resolve issues. The Community Resource Center is equipped with a Resource Library, an Online Services Room, Workshop facilities and a community partner work area. Services provided to customers through our partnerships include onsite genetic testing and Family Law Facilitator support.