One has simply to turn on the TV or look at their phone to see that the world is crazier than ever, and children seem to be getting the worst of it. It’s harder than ever just to be a kid, and the mounting challenges of living in these times can take a toll on their emotional well-being. This is where the Lycoming-Clinton System of Care comes in.
The Lycoming-Clinton System of Care recognizes the urgent need for comprehensive support for children at risk of emotional challenges. It works to empower children and families through coordinated, collaborative, and community-driven approaches. This initiative provides a guide for supporting those who are most vulnerable. “The Lycoming-Clinton System of Care provides hope, empowering children at risk of emotional challenges and uniting families and communities with the support they need to thrive. Together, we foster resilience, nurture potential, and build a brighter future for all.” Says Cleveland Way, Program Director of the System of Care.
The initiative also helps those involved understand emotional disturbance in children. Emotional disturbances in children can manifest in various ways, including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, trauma, and difficulties in social interactions. These challenges can hinder a child’s ability to succeed academically, develop healthy relationships, and thrive in their environments. Families affected by the emotional challenges find themselves navigating the complexities of available support and treatment; this can be overwhelming. Recognizing this, the Lycoming-Clinton System of Care seeks to provide a holistic response that addresses the children and their family’s needs while strengthening the family’s ability to advocate for themselves and their children.
The Lycoming-Clinton System of Care is structured around the core belief that every child deserves access to appropriate support tailored to their unique circumstances. This initiative aims to create a cohesive resource network that fosters resilience, promotes mental health, and empowers families to face challenges together. The system of care draws upon the strengths of local organizations, mental health professionals, and community stakeholders and is committed to four core values.
Collaboration: Developing partnerships among schools, healthcare providers, social services, and community organizations to identify an integrated approach to care.
Family-Centered Care: Prioritizing a child-driven, family-focused care process, ensuring they have access to resources, training, and support that will develop a courageous voice in their treatment.
Cultural Competency: Addressing the diverse needs of families within the community by offering culturally sensitive services and creating a care plan unique to the individual and not the whole.
Empowerment and Education: Providing families with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to advocate for their children’s needs within the mental health system.
“The Lycoming-Clinton System of Care is more than just an initiative; it is a movement that seeks to redefine how we approach children’s mental health,” said Way.
The initiative also features Family Voice Together, which is a parent support group that believes in partnering with families and treating everyone fairly. “We aim to help families support one another and grow together—whether it’s adults, kids, or teens. We understand that families are essential, and they can help themselves, other families, and the community,” said Way. Cleveland Way went on to say that the initiative celebrates each family’s unique culture, race, and language while helping them succeed in a diverse world. In addition, Lycoming-Clinton System of Care programs connect with the community and build strong relationships. The initiative also advocates for families to ensure they receive fair services that meet their needs. An integral part of this is the Lead Family Coordinator, who works closely with families to find helpful resources and is flexible when addressing new challenges that arise. Last, the initiative works to ensure that their family support values guide everything they do, from planning to running their programs.
As the Lycoming-Clinton System of Care takes shape, positive outcomes for children and families are reachable, reduced out-of-home placements are possible, and community-based treatment is attainable. By fostering a community-wide commitment to mental health, we can create an environment where children feel safe, supported, and empowered to live fulfilling lives. The initiative invites community members, organizations, and families to join in this vital effort because when we come together to support our children, we foster a brighter future for all. “In today’s society, caring for our children extends beyond parental responsibility. The influence and support they receive come from where we live, play, worship, and learn. We can make a difference in a child’s life,” said Way.
For more information, you can check out Lycoming-Clinton System of Care online at http://www.lycomingclintonsystemofcare.com/, contact Cleveland Way via email at systemofcare@joinder.org, or call 570-326-7895 or 1-800-525-7938.
