LAN 12 - Activities/Funded Programs

Family Resource Service (1-800-872-0528)

The LAN operates the Family Resource Service which is a toll free telephone service available for all residents of Madison County without any cost.  It primarily provides the caller with information and referral services to social service agencies through the county.  In some instances, short-term counseling and advocacy services are provided.

Respite Care Services (1-800-467-9200 ext. 390)

A service available to families within Madison County who have children and are experiencing stress in their lives that might be cause for neglect or abuses to the children.  Financial assistance can be made available.

Community Collaborations

This program has been in existence for approximately 1 year.  Its purpose is to assist community grass-root efforts develop programs and/or activities for children and families that may be at risk.

Communities/agencies applied for funding through an RFP (Request for Proposal).  This year, Highland School District, Bethesda Temple Church, and Children's Home and Aid Society of Illinois (CHASI) were awarded funding.  Highland is developing a character education program entitled "Very Important Principles", Bethesda is developing a drama program entitled "Kids Influencing Kids", CHASI will be holding a conference the summer of 2001 for adoptive and foster care parents, child welfare professionals, and DCFS staff.  The conference will provide information, education, and resources to better support children's permanency goals.

Healthy Family/Newborn Informational Packets

This is neither a service nor a program.  The packets contain different informational fliers and brochures to help maintain safe and healthy families.  Included also are different services available.  The packets are developed for adoptive families, reunified families, and first time parents of newborns.

10th District Peer Jury Program

The Peer Jury  is a program operating under the auspices of the Chicago Police Department and is designed to provide a meaningful and remedial method of dealing with selected juvenile offenders under the age of 17, without referral to Juvenile Court.  The process will not determine guilt or innocence.  A case is only sent to the Peer Jury for a hearing when the offender admits having committed the offense, the arresting officer and youth investigator determine that such a disposition is appropriate, or the offender and his/her parent(s) or guardian consents in writing to such a disposition and sign a waiver of liability and confidentiality.

The goal of the Peer Jury Program is to improve the capacity of youth to become responsible and productive.  The objective of the Peer Jury Program is to help youth and family deal with problem situations in a constructive and positive manner.

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