Toll Free 1-888-430-3055
210 Beltrami Ave. NW
Bemidji, MN 56601
Office (218) 751-0282
Fax (218) 751-0870
family group conferencing
Families are more likely to follow through with a plan of care and safety when it is a plan that they help create. Additionally, family group conferencing draws upon the strengths within the family and empowers them to take responsibility for the care and well being of each other.
Mission:
To provide a community-based continuum of quality care to children and families.
Why use Family Group Conferencing?
Family Group Conferencing (FGC) focuses on the strengths of families, and is a problem-solving process that provides families with the opportunity to make important decisions together within a support system.
FGC is organized by a trained facilitator who is independent of your situation. The facilitator brings together your extended family and supporting agencies to make well rounded decisions, create and then carry out a plan. Families may use FGC to resolve problems due to the out-of-home placement of a child, during a divorce, or during a time when the care of an elderly parent needs to be decided. The facilitator will set up and run the meeting, but will not make any decisions about your family plan. Lastly, they will write out your plan and distribute it to all participants.
Family Group Conferencing is
- Family Centered
- Strength Based
- Culturally Relevant
- Community Based
Who May Attend
- Children/Siblings
- Parents/Extended Family
- Spiritual Advisor/Elders
- Social Workers/Service Providers
- Probation Agents
- Guardians/Family Friends
- Guardian Ad Litem
- Foster parents
How to make a Referral
For more information on Family Group Conferencing, or to make a referral, call the North Homes Bemidji office at 218-751-0282.
Step One: Information Gathering
We received your referral and review the history. We then set up a time, date, location, as well as send out invitations to the meeting.
Step Two: Information Sharing
Everyone is introduced. Roles and guidelines are established. Family strengths and concerns are identified. The social workers and other service providers discuss issues and available resources. Your family has an opportunity to ask questions.
Step Three: Family Alone Time
Your family discusses the issues and concerns and then develops an acceptable safety and supportive plan. Refreshments are provided to create a relaxed atmosphere.
Step Four: Presentation of the Plan
The supportive workers and facilitator rejoin your family to discuss and record the plan, clarifying or fine-tuning if necessary. Follow-up conferences may occur, if needed.
