Family Outreach

Family Outreach is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is community-based and relies heavily on volunteers. Family Outreach is dedicated to strengthening families and preventing child abuse and neglect. Family Outreach helps families in times of stress. The program enlists volunteers to provide support, encouragement, and parenting information.

History
In 1972, the Texas Department of Human Services, which was experiencing a lack of funds with which to serve the "at risk" families of Texas, welcomed the proposal of a volunteer program initiated by the Richardson-Plano Section of the National Council of Jewish Women. The timely idea of using trained volunteers to deliver casework services in partnership with the Texas Department of Human Services was unique. Child Protective Services provided the casework manager and Family Outreach provided the volunteers. The first Family Outreach center opened in 1973 in Richardson.

The Family Outreach program eventually expanded across Texas to 34 centers. The Richardson/Plano Center, the original center, is one of four in the Dallas area. Each center is incorporated and operates independently.

After state budget cuts in 2003, many centers had to close. There are currently only seven Family Outreach centers across the state. Family Outreach - Richardson/Plano hired its own caseworker manager and continues to offer services to the Richardson/Plano/Collin County communities.

In 2004, Family Outreach Richardson/Plano began a partnership with the Collin County Children’s Advocacy Center. The center is housed within the Advocacy Center and works closely with Child Protective Services there.

Referrals come from Child Protective Services, the courts, schools, and hospitals.

The volunteers are responsible for the administration of the center, funding the operating budget and providing the services.

Common focus areas
Services offered include one-on-one casework (mentoring) under the supervision of the casework manager for "at risk" families; parenting classes; anti-victimization program for school children; a Help Line to give resource information; and speakers bureau. Except for the parenting classes, services are provided free to the community.

Funding
Financial support comes from individuals, businesses, and philanthropic organizations within the community. Funds enable Family Outreach to offer the critically needed services to protect children, educate the community and strengthen families. It is a 501(c)(3) organization which means that donations are tax deductible.