Interagency collaboration recognizes that it takes several partners
to bring together the resources to assist children and families to be successful. The Collaborations based on the community’s ownership and commitment to support children and families.

Interagency collaboration have existed in this country even before the start of the twentieth century, with settlement houses of the late 1800's, working together to identify problems and otherwise offer comprehensive services to families.

Kansas has a rich history of collaboration within child welfare. Many communities have strong multi-agency collaborations. No one agency can respond to the multiple needs of families. As individuals and an agency who care about families, we know that our work can not take place in a vacuum. Our resources and efforts are best put to use if we collaborate with a shared focus and goals. Collaboration creates a sense of community ownership, aligns resources, reduces competition, avoids duplication of services and allows for greater efficiency for supporting and sustaining services to children and families, thus improving outcomes for families.

Collaborative efforts can be complex and time consuming. A systems of care approach helps it become more strategic. Forming strong partnerships within and outside the traditional scope of child welfare is how we will achieve best practices. Remember.....strong and effective collaboration includes the consumers voice at the table. Utilize families expertise by engaging them as equal partners.

For more information, contact:
Beth Evans
EBME@srskansas.org
785-296-5254