Attention/Contract Home Program for troubled youth [1994]

HOW DO YOU RATE AS AN Ale PARENT?
The following is a self test for you to test yourself. Circle the appropriate numbers and add up your score.

1. I am ready to share myself and

my home with an NC child.

5 4 321

2. My marriage is stable and happy and we both want A/C children. If single, I have good 5 4 321 child care experience and someone available to give me support.

3. I can accept adolescents as different and interesting individuals, 5 4 321 each with his/her own needs.

4. I have a genuine concern for our youth and enjoy caring for them. 5 4 321

5. I have enough space in my home for a youth. Each should have a 5 4 321 bed of his/her own.

6. I am in good physical and mental health and willing to have a 5 4 3 2 1 physical exam.

7. I have additional income which will help supplement my needs 5 4 321 apart from NC payment.

8.

When things go wrong, I can remain calm.

5 4 321

9. I consider myself to be a mature individual who uses good 5 4 3 2 1 judgement.

10. I have a good sense of humor. 5 4 3 2 1

Subtotal:

Grandtotals:

If you scored 35 or above, the NC program may be for you and can bring you deep and long lasting rewards.

DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND
YOUTH SERVICES
ATTENTION I CONTRACT HOME PROGRAM
FOR TROUBLED YOUTH

There are a large number of Georgia's youth who need a stable, structured family environment. Sometimes the family situation makes it necessary for a child to live outside the family for a period of time so that the problem can be worked out. For these troubled youths, at this time in their lives this home is an Attention/Contract Home.
These homes provide a family living experience for youths age 8-17 who need temporary care outside their home. Most adolescents need care as the result of problems within their home, difficulty in the school community, or behavior which the youth needs help in controlling. Most of these adolescents are pleasant, likeable youths who need skilled parenting to overcome obstacles and work through their problems so they can return to their own homes.
The Attention Home Program provides short term emergency services from 1-45 days.
The Contract Home Program is a residential treatment program which serves youth from 4 months to 1 year.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE AIC PARENT
They are rated as exceptional parents who are flexible in their relationships with youths. They are characterized by their warmth, a keen sense of humor, and a stable and normal home life to offer youths. They do not have unrealistic expectations of adolescent behavior and are good models of coping skills. The NC parents vary in their level of education, income, background, and family structure. Some NC parents are single parents. There is no "perfect" NC family. Each family has its own strengths and weaknesses. This helps to match the adolescent with the NC family.
APPROVAL OF THE AIC HOME
The Department of Children and Youth Services approves NC homes based on standards of basic health and safety. The size of your home makes no difference, nor does the child have to have a separate room. The local worker who studies the home is more interested in learning the strengths and limitations of the family in its ability to handle adolescent relationships than the financial status of the family or the spotless home.

The home approval procedure is fairly simple. There are forms to be filled out concerning the family members. Medical exams, T.B. tests and VDRL tests are required to assure the health of both the parents and the child. Background investigation checks and fingerprinting are required of any adults in the household. The total approval process takes at least a month to complete. Training sessions are made available in order to strengthen your skills and all NC parents are encouraged to attend. The local worker needs to know the family well so that when the time comes to place a youth in that home there will be a good chance of success for the child and the A/C family.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT PROVIDED
State funds cover the cost of the basic needs of the child, such as, food and shelter. The current rate is $10.00 per day per child. In addition, medical and dental needs are covered by the State or by Medicaid. Reimbursment for other expenses, such as, clothing, educational expenses, travel and allowance are provided. The State of Georgia also provides liability insurance to cover all NC parents.
BEING AN AIC PARENT
Being an NC parent can be a rewarding experience. The satisfaction of knowing that you played a major part in helping a troubled youth overcome difficulties, and return to his family with better coping skills, is self-fulfilling. Sometimes all it takes is letting them know that someone cares. A little love, a little time, and a few days in your home could make a difference in their lives.
FURTHER INFORMATION: