Family Centers in Rural Communities: Lessons for Policy, Planning, and Practice

Abstract

Family centers have emerged as a focal point of considerable interest for those looking for alternatives to highly bureaucratic and residual approaches to child welfare programs and services. These centers are seen to incorporate the best elements of ecological and strengths-based family practice, bringing together professional and community members in a supportive, inclusive, and nonstigmatizing environment. However, much of the research on family centers is grounded in urban neighborhoods or has failed to distinguish between urban and rural contexts. This paper presents results from an exploratory study that highlighted issues relevant to the establishment and operation of family centers in rural communities. Implications for policy makers and planners, as well as rural family and child welfare practitioners, are discussed.