By: Ryan Duey

Photo Courtesy of Canva

A nonprofit organization is exploring the possibility of bringing a family support program to the City of Abilene that helps children with severe behavioral challenges while keeping families together. Foster Adopt Connect recently met with the local CARES Coalition to discuss launching its Behavior Interventionist program as a pilot project in the community.

The program places trained workers in family homes to help children replace harmful behaviors with healthier responses. Staff also coach parents and caregivers on understanding trauma, diagnoses such as ADHD or autism, and setting realistic expectations. The goal is to stabilize households and prevent situations that could lead to foster care placements.

Founded 25 years ago in the Kansas City area by foster and adoptive parents, the organization now operates nearly 20 locations serving families connected to the foster care system.

Research shows Dickinson County may benefit from the program, with nearly 5,000 youth and many living with relatives. Before launching locally, the nonprofit must first identify 10 eligible children to participate.