This learning program is designed to facilitate a collaborative conversation among Department of Child Protection (DCP) professionals about the practical aspects of the ACS Collaborative, Assessment, Response & Support (CARES) approach. Learners examine each major decision point in the life of a CARES case, from screening to case closure. Learners are also invited to reflect on their CARES practice, to be open to sharing and learning with their peers across the city, to engage in polling questions connected to various scenarios, and to participate in breakout room group discussions. Before attending this virtual, instructor-led training, learners must complete all course prerequisites listed below.
Who Should Attend?
DCP’s Child Protective Specialists, supervisors and managers working in CARES units.
Course Benefits
Learners will:
- Understand that CARES is one of ACS’s strategies to address racial equity disparities in the NYC Child Welfare system.
- Acknowledge implicit biases and how they impact decisions and outcomes for families.
- Maintain safety-focused practice at all decision-making points of a referral in a manner consistent with the CARES approach.
- Reinforce the Solution-Focused Practice approach throughout the life of a CARES case.
Course Prerequisites
Prior to attending this course, learners are required to have completed:
- Completion of the CARES Foundational Training Series.
- Assignment to a DCP CARES unit for a minimum of six months.
Course Components
Once enrolled in the course, learners will complete:
- A 4-hour, virtual, instructor-led workshop training.
Completion of all components is necessary to receive a Certificate of Completion.
Continuing Education Units
There are no CEUs associated with this course.
Registration
Staff should work with their Staff Development Coordinators if interested in registering for this course.