Programs & Services
Family Advocacy Program
In an effort to promote positive relationships between families and IDCFS, we
have developed a program that addresses issues ranging from investigating allegations
to foster care recruitment. By staying abreast of these concerns we have resolved
numerous concerns and complaints, ultimately finding common ground and satisfaction
among everyone involved.
Domestic Violence Awareness
FCRC has collaborated with the local domestic violence shelter to educate
the public about domestic violence issues and its affects on children.
Training seminars are available to the public and presentations are given
regularly at community events.
Cultural Diversity Training
In the past, lack of cultural diversity awareness has had a negative impact
on many children and families experiencing intervention by IDFS and other
agencies. In an effort to educate caseworkers about cultural differences,
FCRC offers quarterly training for all community members, including businesses,
social workers, school officials, college and university employees, law
enforcement, States Attorney and Public Defender offices, and the general
public.
Resource Referral Program
The Family and Community Resource Center serves as a referral source for
families and clients in the Bloomington-Normal area who need help resolving
domestic issues. Our referrals include walk-ins, existing FCRC clients,
and referrals from private agencies such as the Illinois Department of
Children and Family Services (IDCFS), Catholic Charities, The Children’s
Foundation, the Public Defender’s Office, etc.
Credit Counseling Program
Debt, poor budget management, improper credit use, and hazy financial goals
are issues that can cause great strain on any family. FCRC has partnered
with Chestnut Health Systems to provide workshops to help community members
learn how to achieve financial stability. Families currently involved
in the child welfare system and those preparing to welcome their children
home again will especially benefit from this program.
Coaching Boys Into Men
Looking to bond with a boy in need of guidance? This program is designed
to foster relationships with young men and encourages participants to
help boys learn to respect themselves, others, and the women in their
lives. A series of 12 videos will be shown focusing on masculinity, father-son
relationships, parenting skills for young fathers, self-esteem, responsibility,
and more.
Additional Educational Programs
This program has been developed for at-risk elementary school students (ages
5-11) who are academically and behaviorally at risk in the Bloomington-Normal
school districts. Mentoring, tutoring, home visits, and weekly parent meetings
are offered, with the intended outcome of academic/behavioral improvement
and positive change.
