| Peer Parent Program
Program Description
Peer mentorship throughout involvement with the Child Welfare System, from initial detention to reunification/permanency.
WHO ARE PARENT PARTNERS?
We are experienced “life-trained paraprofessionals” who offer unique empathy and understanding to parents navigating the Child Welfare System. With our in-depth knowledge of CWS, we can provide clear explanations, help with documents, and connect parents to available resources. Working alongside their treatment team, which may include social workers, probation officers, therapists, and legal representatives, we advocate for and support parents. Our goal is to inspire and empower parents, demonstrating that overcoming challenges is possible and offering a positive perspective of hope and encouragement.
WHAT DOES A PARENT PARTNER DO?
Parent Partners collaborate with CWS, Child Welfare Staff, and agencies to create a supportive community network. They work with social workers and other providers to address family needs, contribute to policy development, change community perceptions, and offer training opportunities. The Parent Partner Program aims to assist and support parents throughout the reunification process with their child/children.
Program Qualifications
Clients in the Child Welfare System with open cases who are being offered services through CWS.
Contact Information
Lompoc
604 W. Ocean Ave
Lompoc, CA 93436
Whitney Booker
(805) 891-8274
wbooker@goodsamaritanshelter.org
Santa Maria
403 W. Morrison Ave
Santa Maria, CA 93458
Michelle Vargas
(805) 891-8261
mvargas@goodsamaritanshelter.org
Any family with an open Child Welfare Case regardless of duration; who is currently being offered services through CWS, is eligible to work with a Parent Partner. Our program is voluntary and provided through Good Samaritan from Child Welfare Services.
- One-on-one peer support
- Community resource info
- Assistance with plan requirements:
- Working with CWS worker
- Communication skills
- Case Plan requirements
- Reunification process
- Help navigating CWS
- Accountability for healthy decision-making process towards change that ensures child safety
- Help establishing safety networks
- Relapse-prevention planning
- One-on-one peer mentorship
- Weekly appointments (in person or over the phone)
- Support at court hearings
- Client accountability
- Client Advocacy
- Recognition of family strengths
- Promotion of personal empowerment
- Focused support on Case Plan objectives
- Safety Focused Family Planning
Parent Partner Program mentors will accept referrals from Child Welfare Services and partnering agencies. We work to support families who are currently going through the Juvenile Court System to establish an ongoing supportive relationship with them.