CARE Implementation and Integration Package

Implementing the CARE model requires commitment and change from all levels of an agency including staff, supervisors, managers, and administrators. Some agencies may have to make dramatic shift in the way they operate in order to integrate the principles of CARE into their work. Cornell professional CARE trainers will be involved in and available to support your agency in each aspect of implementation for your organization.

Outcomes of Implementing CARE

–Increased knowledge and ability on the part of staff in applying the CARE principles in their practice
–Improved organizational climate and culture
–Decreases in critical incidents such as fighting, verbal abuse, runaways, physical interventions
–Increased organizational congruence in serving the best interests of the children
–Improved child outcomes

Intended Audience

Residential child care agencies and organizations providing services to children and families.

Program Activities

Over a two year period, staff from Cornell University’s Residential Child Care Project work closely with the residential agency to implement and integrate the CARE practice model throughout the organization. Implementing CARE involves several steps:
–Identification of a core group of agency leaders to serve as the CARE implementation and integration workgroup
–An organizational assessment including assessment of culture/climate, current practice, and program
–Training for all staff at all levels on the CARE principles
–Training for agency supervisors in activities that provide support and accountability for the use of CARE principles
–Technical assistance to agency leadership in collaborative management strategies to support CARE practices and to ensure long-term maintenance and sustainability.
–Technical assistance to support, enhance and maintain the use of CARE principles in daily activities throughout the organization, i.e. observations, work group meetings, case reviews

Special Features

–On-site training and technical assistance
–Selected agency staff trained as CARE trainers
–Training materials to conduct 30 hours of in-service training
–Strategies to maintain CARE as the agency’s practice model

For additional information, please contact Martha Holden at mjh19@cornell.edu