RE: Family Conference Models

[Pat Doyle <PatD@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Michelle,

A co-worker of mine forwarded your query on Family Group Conferences for a
response. I am a staff member at the National Center of Family Group
Decision Making through the American Humane Association.  The National
Center works diligently to provide current information about FGDM
implementation efforts, best practices, training, technical assistance and
program development to interested individuals and communities around the US
and abroad.  

Family Group Conferencing is the predominant family group decision making
model in the US.  While other models (e.g., Family Unity model) have been
implemented in select locales, the majority of communities in the US embrace
the philosophy and processes of the FGC model.  A number of communities have
blended the models creating a multitude of variations.  In addition, a
growing number of communities and programs have found innovative
opportunities to incorporate FGDM philosophy and practices into other work
with families (beyond traditional child welfare).  You will find a good deal
of information that speaks to this on our website at:  www.fgdm.org.  

There is a threaded discussion board where you can post this question to
other FGDM practioners.   There are links to free resources and a host of
other publications and materials for purchase, as well.  Also, there is some
early information about AHA's 2001 National Roundtable on Family Group
Decision Making in Chapel Hill, NC.  

Perhaps you will consider joining us at our next national Roundtable...it
will undoubtedly be a valuable opportunity to learn about the experiences
and practices of other programs in the US and beyond.  It may help answer
some questions...and will likely inspire more.

If we can be of additional assistance in your process, please feel free to
contact me.  


Leslie Wilmot
Program and Policy Analyst
National Center on Family Group Decision Making
American Humane Association
63 Inverness Dr. East
Englewood, CO 80112
(303) 925-9489
lesliew@americanhumane.org

-----Original Message-----
From: Michelle Kessler [mailto:kessler1@students.uiuc.edu]
Sent: Wednesday, January 31, 2001 9:54 AM
To: Child Maltreatment Researchers
Subject: Family Conference Models


I am looking for very recent material on family conferencing models.  I
understand that there are two major models, Family Unity Meetings (Oregon
model) and Family Decision MAking (New Zealand).  I am most interested in
information on what other states are working on and developing, particularly
if they find the program to be effective.  In Illinois, we are looking to
incorporate some type of family conference model into the states' Best
Practices.  We look forward to learning from others.  I would appreciate any
feedback/help that you may have to offer.

THanks,

Michelle

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Michelle L. Kessler, Visiting Research Specialist
Children and Family Research Center
1203 W. Oregon
Urbana,IL. 61801
(217)-244-4662
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