Community Careworker Program | ACRP - Alternative Community Resource Program

What is the Community Careworker Program?

The Community Careworker Program is designed to break the cycle of family conflict and keep families together. Children in this program are usually at some degree of risk of being placed outside the home because of abuse, neglect, disruptive behavior or other problems.

Our goal is to improve the quality of life for the child and the entire family.

Who Qualifies for the Community Careworker Program?

The Community Careworker Program serves children and adolescents ages 4 to 17 referred to ACRP by Cambria County Children and Youth Services, Juvenile Probation or the Juvenile Court System. ACRP works closely with the child, parents, educators, therapists, and involved agencies to address ongoing problems.

How Can I Begin Services?

Each child and parent(s) help develop an individual goal plan detailing what services and help are needed. A child is then assigned a Careworker. The Careworker acts as a role model, spending one-on-one and group time with the child. Together, they complete homework, take part in community activities, work on social interaction, and basic life skills such as hygiene and nutrition. Parental and educational support is provided on an as-needed basis. ACRP also links these families to other programs and resources in the community.

Once a referral and authorization for services is received from the referring agencies an intake is scheduled. This home visit helps ACRP understand what assistance may be needed. Input from family members is the most important element in developing goals to meet the needs of the child and family.

After a plan is in place, a Careworker will spend 10 to 15 hours per week with the child working to achieve specific goals. Typically, the time is spent in various social & life skills groups, doing schoolwork, and taking part in recreational and community activities. Children are rewarded for positive behavior with special outings and field trips. They can also earn allowances to buy clothing, food, toys, and other items by displaying positive behavior and making an effort to meet their established goals.

The child’s goal plan is established and reviewed after the first month and the initial review and thereafter on a quarterly basis. A child will work with a Careworker an average of 3 to 6 months, or until the child, family, referring agency and ACRP see progress in completing goals or court orders.

For more information call...

ACRP at (814) 535-2277