Bridging the Gap: Integrating Family Partners into Rowan County DHHS to Strengthen Child and Family Outcomes, Author Ashley Henderson. Certified Family Peer Specialist
Introduction In today’s health and human services landscape, the success and well-being of children are deeply intertwined with the involvement of families, providers, and the community. Despite growing recognition of the critical role that families play in a child’s development, there often remains a disconnect between these key stakeholders. To address this gap, I discuss the incorporation of Family Partners into the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in Rowan County. Family Peer Specialists—also known as Family Partners—would serve as dedicated liaisons between families, providers, and community organizations, promoting collaboration, communication, and shared responsibility for children’s educational, emotional, and mental success. Background Research has shown that family engagement is closely linked to improved outcomes for children, including stronger academic performance, higher selfesteem, and better social skills (NC State University, 2012). These benefits also extend to mental health and wellness, as students with actively involved families often experience greater emotional stability and lower stress levels (Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, 2021). However, families often face barriers to meaningful engagement due to language, income disparities, and lack of familiarity with service systems. Providers may also find it challenging to build trust with families facing these stressors. Family Partners can help address these challenges by acting as trusted bridges between families and service systems. They promote not only academic success but also emotional well-being by encouraging consistent communication, culturally responsive support, and awareness of mental health resources. This collaborative approach ensures that all stakeholders work together in support of the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.
The Role of Family Partners
Family Partners would act as intermediaries, guiding and supporting families in navigating health and human services. Their role would include:
Facilitating Communication: Helping families and providers understand each other’s perspectives and needs.
Supporting Family Engagement: Organizing workshops, peer support groups, and information sessions to help families take an active role in their children’s care and development.
Advocating for Families: Ensuring equitable access to services for underserved and marginalized families.
Connecting with the Community: Building partnerships with local organizations and agencies to strengthen family support networks.
Providing Cultural Sensitivity: Promoting inclusive practices that respect the diverse backgrounds of the families served.
Benefits of Integrating Family Partners into Health and Human Services
Improved Family Functioning and Child Well-Being: Family Partners help families access support systems, strengthen parenting skills, and advocate for their needs, resulting in better developmental and wellness outcomes (Child Trends, 2021).
Increased Family Satisfaction and Trust: By improving communication and understanding, Family Partners foster trust and empower families to actively participate in their care and decision-making processes (NC SFEC, 2021).
Enhanced Service Delivery and Provider Support: Family Partners provide context and insight into family experiences, easing provider workloads and improving the quality and coordination of care (Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, 2021).
Strengthened Community Engagement: By connecting families with community-based resources, Family Partners help build stronger, more cohesive support networks that reflect shared community goals (NC SFEC, 2021).
Advancing Equity and Access: Family Partners reduce barriers to services by advocating for families from historically underserved populations and promoting culturally relevant, inclusive care (Child Trends, 2021).
Implementation Strategy
Recruitment and Training: Select Family Partners from within the communities served. Train in trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and systems navigation.
Establishing Roles and Responsibilities: Develop job descriptions and workflows in collaboration with DHHS programs.
Ongoing Evaluation: Use regular surveys, interviews, and service utilization data to assess program impact.
Community and Stakeholder Buy-In: Engage families, providers, and community leaders to build trust and ensure sustainability.
Conclusion
Integrating Family Partners into the Department of Health and Human Services represents a transformative step toward family-centered, equitable care. Their involvement promotes trust, better communication, and improved service outcomes—especially for children and families who are often overlooked by traditional systems. By investing in Family Partners, Rowan County can support long-term health and wellness, reduce disparities, and build a stronger, more connected community.
-Ashley Henderson
Certified Family Peer Specialist
Community Based Rehabilitative
Specialist
